Many high school students enroll in dual credit courses, so they can get a jump start on their college education. Not only does dual credit courses help prepare students for college, but students can save an abundance of money by taking college courses in high school. Read on to learn more about the dual credit program, so you can determine if this option is for you.What are dual credit courses?Dual credit is a program that allows high school students to enroll in college courses, and receive both college credit and credit towards their high school graduation requirements simultaneously. In other words, when a student takes a dual credit course, and successfully completes the course, that course will appear on the students college transcript and high school transcript. So, the student is actually satisfying the academic requirements for high school and college at the same time.Can all students enroll in the dual credit program?No. Not all high school students are eligible to take dual credit courses. If your high school offers the dual credit program, there are a few requirements that you must meet in order to participate in this program. Generally speaking, you must be a junior or senior at your high school and have an appropriate grade point average, in order to qualify for the dual credit program. In addition, you must demonstrate to your high school counselor that you have the proper skills and ability to do well in dual credit courses. For instance, dual credit students must be motivated, focused, and have excellent study habits and good time management skills. Overall, dual credit students are typically high achievers and make good grades in their high school classes.How much does it cost to take dual credit courses?Dual credit courses are significantly cheaper that regular college courses. In fact, some school districts and colleges offer dual credit courses for less than half the price of standard college tuition. Some school districts even offer free dual credit courses for students. However, students are usually responsible for paying for their own textbooks and other materials for their dual credit courses.Where are classes held?Dual credit classes are often taught at the high school. Quite often, dual credit classes are held during the daytime to accommodate the students schedule. However, dual credit courses may also be offered on the college campus (or online through a distance learning program). Please note that all dual credit courses are taught by college instructors (or professors).How do I register for classes?In order to register for dual credit classes, you must first receive approval from your high school counselor. You must complete the proper paperwork and documents with your counselor, and also apply for admission to the college that offers the dual credit courses. You will be required to submit an application for admission to that college, along with an official copy of your high school transcript, appropriate test scores (e.g. SAT/ACT, or another college entrance assessment), and signed paperwork from your counselor. Once you are accepted into that college, your counselor will assist you with registering for the right classes.It can be very beneficial to take dual credit courses in high school. If you are interested in enrolling in your schools dual credit program, speak with you high school counselor as soon as possible to discuss your options. Taking dual credit courses is an excellent way to begin your college education.