Dual Enrollment, CLEP, or AP: Which Path is Best for Your Homeschooled High Schooler?

Homeschooling high school comes with unique advantages: flexibility, the ability to tailor learning to your student’s strengths, and opportunities to explore college-level work on your own terms. When it comes to earning college credit before graduation, three common options stand out: Dual Enrollment, CLEP exams, and AP courses. Here’s how homeschool families can navigate them.

1. Dual Enrollment: College Courses at Your Pace

What it is: Dual enrollment lets students take real college classes—either at a local college, university, or online—and earn both high school and college credit.

Why homeschoolers excel with it:

• Your student can tailor the schedule around homeschool rhythms

• Self-directed learners often thrive in a college environment

• Offers a taste of real-world expectations without leaving the homeschool framework

Considerations:

• Some courses may be challenging without a traditional classroom structure

• Check whether the credits transfer to your student’s target colleges

Best for: Motivated homeschoolers ready for the rigor of college-level classes who enjoy independent learning with some support.

2. CLEP: Earning College Credit Through Testing

What it is: CLEP exams allow students to test out of introductory college courses by demonstrating mastery on a standardized exam.

Why homeschoolers excel with it:

• Flexible self-study fits naturally into a homeschool schedule

• Students can accelerate college credit in stronger areas

• Great for independent learners who don’t need classroom instruction

Considerations:

• Requires strong self-discipline and good test-taking skills

• Not every college accepts all CLEP exams, so research is essential

Best for: Homeschooled students who are self-motivated and enjoy learning independently, especially in subjects they excel at.

3. AP Courses: Structured College-Level Learning at Home

What it is: AP courses are rigorous high school courses with an optional AP exam for potential college credit. Many are available online or through homeschool co-ops.

Why homeschoolers excel with it:

• AP curriculum provides structure for students who like guidance

• Exams demonstrate mastery to colleges, strengthening applications

• Can complement self-directed study in other areas of interest

Considerations:

• Some students may find AP courses restrictive if they prefer project-based or experiential learning

• Credit is exam-dependent; strong scores are necessary

Best for: Homeschooled students who thrive with a structured framework and want a recognized academic credential for college admissions.

How Homeschoolers Can Decide

When choosing between Dual Enrollment, CLEP, and AP, consider:

• Learning style: Independent, project-based, or structured

• College goals: Some colleges prefer one form of credit over another

• Family rhythm: Which option fits naturally with your homeschool schedule

• Strengths and passions: Homeschooling lets you emphasize subjects your student loves

Many homeschoolers combine options. For example:

• Take dual enrollment in areas of interest

• Take AP courses in core subjects like English or history

• Use CLEP exams to accelerate math or foreign language credits

  
  

The beauty of homeschooling is flexibility—your student can create a customized path that maximizes learning, credit, and enjoyment. There’s no one “right” choice. The best approach for your homeschooler is intentional, tailored, and aligned with their strengths and goals. Homeschool students often succeed by mixing and matching options, earning meaningful college credit while learning in a way that fits their life.

Next Steps:

• Schedule a consulting session to create a personalized plan for Dual Enrollment, CLEP, and AP success in your homeschool.