Earning college credit while still in high school might sound ambitious, but for many homeschool families, it’s a smart and achievable way to save money, shorten the time to a degree, and boost a student’s confidence. Online dual enrollment for homeschoolers combines the flexibility of homeschooling with the rigor of college-level learning without sacrificing your family’s schedule or values. .
In its simplest form, dual enrollment allows high school students to take courses that count toward both high school and college credit.Â
When offered online, these courses can be completed anywhere with a reliable internet connection, making them ideal for homeschool students.
This guide will walk you through the benefits, how it works, what to check before signing up, and why a values-aligned college can be a powerful partner in your student’s success.
What Is Online Dual Enrollment?
Dual enrollment allows high school students to take college courses that count toward both high school and college credit.
When offered online, these courses can be completed from home on a flexible schedule, fitting neatly into a homeschool plan.
Why Homeschoolers Are Embracing Online Dual Enrollment
For homeschool families, online dual enrollment can be more than just an academic shortcut. It’s a way to give students early exposure to college-level expectations while still in the comfort and flexibility of their home learning environment.
These programs offer a blend of academic challenge, financial advantage, and personal growth that can set students apart when they graduate.
1. Save time and money.
Earning credits early can shorten your student’s time to a degree—potentially saving thousands in tuition and living expenses.
2. Build college-level skills.
Students gain valuable experience with college-level assignments, deadlines, and communication with professors before they step onto a campus.
3. Boost academic confidence.
A successful college course or two can reassure students (and parents) that they’re ready for higher education’s pace and expectations.
Dual enrollment significantly improves enrollment at both 2‑year and 4‑year colleges, boosts degree attainment, and even leads to higher early‑career earnings, especially for students who are traditionally underrepresented. —
4. Strengthen transcripts.
Dual credit can make homeschool transcripts more competitive when applying to colleges or scholarships.
5. Learn from anywhere.
With online access, students can complete coursework from home, the library, or even while traveling—perfect for flexible homeschool schedules.
How Online Dual Enrollment Works
While details vary by institution, most programs follow a similar process:
- Check eligibility – Usually open to juniors and seniors, though some schools accept younger students.
- Apply to the program – This may involve submitting homeschool records, a recommendation, or placement test results.
- Choose courses – Options may include general education subjects, electives, or introductory courses for a planned major.
- Complete technology setup – Students will need reliable internet, a computer, and any required software.
- Follow the syllabus – Classes have firm deadlines and grading policies, just like in-person college courses.
- Earn credit – Upon successful completion, credits appear on both the high school and college transcript.
What To Verify Before Enrolling
Before committing to a program, take time to confirm key details so your student’s hard work and investment will pay off in the long run.
- Accreditation: Ensure the college is regionally accredited so credits are widely transferable.
- Credit transfer: Contact potential future colleges to confirm how credits will be applied.
- Workload fit: Evaluate the time commitment alongside high school studies and extracurriculars.
- Faith alignment (if desired): For Christian families, seek out colleges that integrate biblical perspectives into coursework.
- Cost and billing: Understand per-credit fees, materials costs, and payment schedules.
Why Ó£»¨ÊÓƵ Is a Strong Choice for Online Dual Enrollment for Homeschoolers
At Great Lakes Christian College, online dual enrollment isn’t just about earning credits. It’s about preparing students academically, spiritually, and personally for what’s next.
- Faith-based courses: Every class integrates a biblical worldview, helping students grow intellectually and spiritually.
- Personalized support: Small class sizes mean students get to know their professors, and professors get to know them—something that’s often missing in larger online programs.
- Flexible scheduling: Courses are designed to fit around homeschool commitments, sports, and family life.
- Smooth pathway to a degree: Credits earned through Ó£»¨ÊÓƵ’s dual enrollment apply directly to Ó£»¨ÊÓƵ degrees and may be transferable to other accredited institutions.
- Community connection: Even online students are welcomed into the Ó£»¨ÊÓƵ community, with opportunities to connect through chapel, events, and campus visits.
Whether your student plans to attend Ó£»¨ÊÓƵ full-time after high school or simply wants a head start, our online dual enrollment program offers the academic rigor, values alignment, and personalized attention homeschool families appreciate.
Ready to learn more? to discuss your student’s goals and see how online dual enrollment at Ó£»¨ÊÓƵ can help them get ahead.
Visit to begin your Ó£»¨ÊÓƵ journey. Questions? Fill out our , email admissions@glcc.edu, or call 800-937-4522 (800-YES-Ó£»¨ÊÓƵ)—we’re here to help!