Tis the season for back to school! Perhaps in this seasons you are contemplating Dual Enrollment for your high schooler. Here are some helpful tips to consider and steps to take to determine if this is the right path for your child.

First of all, check your state’s regulations regarding dual enrollment. Every state is different from age to academic requirements. Some of the differences between states are vast and you might be surprised at the variations in age entry points! For example, in Florida students can enroll in middle school if they meet the academic requirements.

Next, check out the testing requirement for admission for the university that interests your high schooler. This will also vary from state to state and university to university. Most universities list their requirements online. With the wide acceptance of homeschooling, a good majority even have a special homeschooling section with admission and testing information listed.

Speaking of testing requirements, not all universities and college require ACT or SAT tests. Many states will accept passing grades from a Post Secondary Education Readiness Test (PERT) or similar test. These type of tests cover more basic grammar, usage, reading comprehension, and math than the ACT and SAT. The cost of these post-secondary tests is also cheaper and easier to schedule. However, study on your child’s part is still necessary to obtain a passing grade leading to admission. Practice tests can usually be found online.

Now consider your child’s temperament both academically and socially. Dual enrollment can be a wonderful thing for those children who have a desire to learn and a drive to achieve the goal of a degree. Socially, your child will be exposed to people of all ages and backgrounds. While no one can say for certain that they will not be swayed by this, I can tell you that in my experience with my own children, they gravitated towards people who they could find common ground. If this aspect of dual enrollment causes you or your homeschooler much anxiety, many universities offer online options to their class listings. This is also another viable option to consider!

So as you charter the waters of dual enrollment, do not get overwhelmed with the big picture. Taken step by step, the process can be broken down into manageable parts which are easily navigable. Remember that there are plenty of homeschoolers that have gone before you to help guide you both locally and online!