Dual Enrollment Savings Calculator Formula
Understand the math behind the dual enrollment savings calculator. Each variable explained with a worked example.
Formulas Used
Net Savings
net_savings = university_total_cost - de_total_costCredits Earned
total_de_credits = total_creditsDual Enrollment Cost
de_cost = de_total_costEquivalent University Cost
univ_cost = university_total_costVariables
| Variable | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|
de_courses | Dual Enrollment Courses | 6 |
credits_per_course | Credits per Course | 3 |
de_cost_per_credit | Dual Enrollment Cost per Credit($) | 75 |
university_cost_per_credit | University Cost per Credit($) | 500 |
total_credits | Derived value= de_courses * credits_per_course | calculated |
de_total_cost | Derived value= total_credits * de_cost_per_credit | calculated |
university_total_cost | Derived value= total_credits * university_cost_per_credit | calculated |
How It Works
How Dual Enrollment Saves Money
Dual enrollment lets high school students take college courses at a fraction of the normal tuition, or sometimes for free.
Formula
Savings = (University Cost per Credit - DE Cost per Credit) x Total Credits
Beyond cost savings, dual enrollment gives students a head start, potentially graduating a semester or year early.
Worked Example
A student takes 6 dual enrollment courses (3 credits each) at $75/credit vs. $500/credit at their university.
- 01Total credits: 6 x 3 = 18
- 02DE cost: 18 x $75 = $1,350
- 03University cost: 18 x $500 = $9,000
- 04Net savings: $9,000 - $1,350 = $7,650
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dual enrollment credits guaranteed to transfer?
Not always. Credits from accredited community colleges usually transfer, but confirm with your intended university.
Is dual enrollment free?
In some states, dual enrollment is fully subsidized. Others charge a reduced rate. Check your state's program.
What grades do I need for dual enrollment?
Most programs require a minimum high school GPA (often 3.0) and may require standardized test scores.
Ready to run the numbers?
Open Dual Enrollment Savings Calculator