Being a Dual Enrollment Student Has Big Benefits
- Earn credits: Get a head start on your college degree and career readiness
- Explore interests: Classes are offered in popular subjects such as art, economics,
psychology, and science
- Gain access: Join a club, come to campus events, use our student services
- Reduce travel: We offer classes at all OCC campuses and online
- Save money: Programs are tuition-free, potentially saving students and families thousands
of dollars
Studies show dual enrollment students experience higher levels of academic success
in college when compared to students who do not participate.
Deadline to Apply for New & Returning Students
For the fall/summer semester, students are highly encouraged to apply by March 1. For the winter semester, apply by October 1. Ask your high school counselor to help you apply.
Returning dual enrollment students: You must apply each semester. Log in to your OCC application account and submit a new application for the next
semester you plan to attend.
Choose Your Adventure: Dual Enrollment Pathways
We offer multiple dual enrollment options to meet the diverse needs of high school
students and their families.
Traditional Dual Enrollment
High school students (grades 9-12) can enroll in college courses in any of these convenient
formats:
- On campus: Attend your classes at one of OCC's campuses
- Online: Complete your OCC courses remotely
- High school-based: OCC faculty teach college courses at your high school, either during
or after regular school hours
Early Middle College Programs
Early middle college programs provide a structured, multi-year pathway for students
to earn both high school and college credits. You could complete significant college
coursework or even a degree by graduation.
Oakland Early College (OEC):
- Located at OCC’s Orchard Ridge Campus and supported by the West Bloomfield School
District
- Open to students from all Oakland County districts
- High school students (grades 9-12) take a mix of high school and OCC courses, gradually
increasing their college workload
- Includes a 13th year, during which students take a full college course load
- Earn 30+ transferable college credits or an associate degree at no cost
- Serves approximately 150 students each year
Accelerated College Experience (ACE):
- Begins in 11th grade
- Blends high school and OCC coursework
- Features a 13th year, during which students are full-time OCC students
- Earn up to 62 college credits—equivalent to an associate degree
- Tuition, fees, books, and course materials are covered
- Serves approximately 150 students each year
Oakland Technical Early College (OTEC):
- Begins in 11th grade
- Designed for students in high-demand technical career pathways
- Fulfill high school requirements while attending one of the Oakland Schools Technical
Centers and taking OCC courses aligned with a technical degree pathway
- In the 13th year, attend OCC full-time, earning a high school diploma and potentially
an associate degree
- Tuition and book costs are covered
More About Early College
Save Money and Transfer With Ease
I learned through my counselor that I could take classes at OCC not offered at my
high school and earn college credits toward a degree. The idea of starting college
early was very cool to me. I’m now an OCC student graduating soon with an Associate
of Arts. I plan to transfer my credits toward a bachelor’s degree. I highly recommend
OCC’s dual enrollment program. ~ Katie, Rochester High School
For High School Counselors
Partner with us. Find the resources you need to help your students get started and
succeed as dual enrollment students at your high school and OCC.
Dual Enrollment Eligibility FAQs
Do I need to apply again each semester once I’m a dual enrolled student?
Yes, you must apply every semester. We recommend you submit your application by November 1st for the winter semester and April 1st for the Summer and Fall semester. |
I heard dual enrollment is free. How can I participate?
Yes, your district has funding allocated for dual enrollment. Please reach out to
your high school counselor to learn how to get started or contact us directly at Secondary@oaklandcc.edu for assistance. |
I’m homeschooled. Can I still qualify for dual enrollment?
How old do I need to be to qualify for dual enrollment?
You must be in 9th to 12th grade to participate. |
Can I access student services like tutoring or disability accommodations?
Yes, dual enrolled students have access to the same services as OCC students, including
tutoring, academic advising, English as a Second Language (ESL) services, and disability accommodations. For more information, contact OCC’s student services
department. |
Dual Enrollment Course FAQs
What courses can I take as a dual enrolled student?
Dual enrolled students can choose from a variety of courses, but course eligibility
may depend on prerequisites, availability, and approval from your high school. Check
with your high school counselor for guidance. |
How many courses can I take each semester?
It varies. The number of courses you can take depends on your high school’s policy
and the available funding from your district. Consult your high school counselor for
specific guidelines. |
What if I need to drop or withdraw from a course?
If you need to drop or withdraw from a course, it’s important to contact both your
high school counselor and OCC’s dual enrollment office as soon as possible to avoid
penalties or negative impacts on your transcript. |
Do dual enrollment courses count for both high school and college credit?
Yes, most dual enrollment courses count for both high school and college credit. Confirm
with your high school counselor which courses meet graduation requirements. |
Will dual enrollment credits transfer to other colleges or universities?
In most cases, yes. OCC credits are widely transferable, but it’s a good idea to check
with the institution you plan to attend to ensure they transfer the way you expect. |
To talk to a Dual Enrollment Navigator, complete this form and we'll contact you.
