A Scholastic Duel: IB Versus Dual Enrollment
By Olivia Honan
Staff Reporter November 8, 2017 High school is the time when people begin to deeply consider their futures. Possible career choices are turning into future goals and one thing is on every student’s mind: College.
While some people consider where they want to go others are deciding how exactly they will get there. There are many options and paths to college but two very prominent choices for many are dual enrollment and the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. Dual enrollment involves high school students going to a local college to complete courses that earn them credit towards a degree while still taking and completing high school classes. According to informational page on the IB website “The International Baccalaureate aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect.” Though the question for most is, which will do more for me? Both programs have their advantages and disadvantages. Dual enrolling can help students complete part or all of their associates degree at no cost to them. In comparison IB students take AP courses that may allow them to skip over some entry-level courses. The IB program does however significantly increase acceptance rates for certain colleges. According to the article Why Consider IB? (Gulliver Schools) “The acceptance rate of IB students into Ivy League institutions is between 3% and 13% higher compared to the total population acceptance rate.” These few percentage points can make a big difference when trying to get into some of the best schools in the country. Dual enrollment can make an impact on college applications as well because both programs show colleges that the students are prepared for the work they will need to do to complete college. But when it comes to deciding what path you wish to take, it is not only important to consider benefits but your own personal strengths and limitations. Both programs are rigorous in their own manner and it is up to the student in what manner they wish to take on the challenge of high school and college. |
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