Failing Dual Enrollment Students Still More Likely to Enroll in College

A new study from Brown University's Annenberg Institute indicates that high school students who fail dual-enrollment courses are still more likely to enroll in college compared to their peers who do not participate in such programs. The research, published on July 22, 2026, analyzed the post-secondary enrollment patterns of students who took college-level courses while still in high school.

The findings suggest that the exposure to college-level material and the experience of navigating a college course, even with a failing grade, can positively influence a student's decision to pursue higher education. This contrasts with the assumption that failing a course might deter students from continuing their academic pursuits at the college level. The study did not specify the exact percentage increase in college enrollment but highlighted a statistically significant correlation.

Researchers at the Annenberg Institute examined data from a cohort of high school students across various states, focusing on their academic performance in dual-enrollment classes and their subsequent college matriculation. The study aimed to understand the broader impact of early college exposure beyond just successful course completion. The implications of this research could inform how educational institutions design and promote dual-enrollment opportunities, potentially emphasizing the preparatory benefits for all participating students, regardless of final grades.

While the study did not delve into the specific reasons behind this increased likelihood, potential factors include increased familiarity with the college environment, a better understanding of academic expectations, and the motivational boost derived from having already experienced college coursework. The Annenberg Institute plans further research to explore these contributing factors in more detail.