Dual Enrollment Frequently Asked Questions

Transcripts, SAT/ACT Scores, AP Credits, and College Credits

Learn more about high school or SMC transcripts, SAT/ACT scores, AP credits and equivalencies, and the Michigan Transfer Agreement for college credit.

• How do I submit a high school transcript?

  High school transcripts help identify which courses students can take. Students can work with their high school guidance counselor to have their transcript sent to the Dual Enrollment team at SMC. Registration cannot happen until the high school transcript is received.

• Do I need SAT/ACT scores?

  College Board (SAT) and ACT scores are sometimes used to meet course prerequisites for students to take college level classes in high school. To start the process, students will log in to their SAT or ACT account and send their scores to their guidance counselor. The counselor will then review the scores and forward them to the Dual Enrollment team for eligibility and placement.

• HOW DO ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) AND SMC DUAL ENROLLMENT CREDITS WORK?

  Taking AP courses taught by high school teachers is one way to strive for low-cost college credit. The scores may allow students to receive college credit or to skip introductory college classes. 

  For a list of SMC AP equivalencies, including the score necessary to receive credit from SMC and number of credits awarded per course, click here.

  With dual-enrollment classes at SMC, students will get an introduction to the college environment, have full access to college facilities, and take classes with higher-achieving students and college faculty. As long as students pass the overall class with a grade of C or better, they will complete the high school requirement and be granted highly transferable college credit on an official college transcript. 

• What is the Michigan Transfer Agreement?

  The Michigan Transfer Agreement (MTA) is an agreement between community colleges and participating Michigan universities. It facilitates the transfer of a core block of general education courses.

  Specific courses that meet MTA standards are listed here. Consult your advisor if you have questions about approved courses or specific details. 

• What grade do students need to be granted college credit?

  Most colleges will not grant transfer credit from any institution for classes completed with a grade below a “C”.  Therefore, it is highly advisable to pass the class with a “C” or better so credit can be transferred later if so desired.

• How will the college credit show up after the semester?

  Once final grades are posted at the conclusion of an academic semester, they will be reflected on an official college transcript under the student’s name and identification number. For a small fee, the student may then request the transcript be sent to other institutions, if desired, through the SMC Records Office.

• HOW DO I ORDER AN SMC TRANSCRIPT?

  College transcripts serve as the official/permanent record of your academic performance and educational achievements at a college or university. SMC offers three ways to order your official transcript.

Classes, Grades, and Student Communication Expectations

Get the scoop on the classes you can take, how grades work, and the importance of communicating with your instructors.

• What classes can students take?

  There are many factors in this equation, including the student’s overall college readiness as determined by test scores and grades, the type of dual-enrollment program and available college class sections. Most students take Michigan Transfer Agreement courses, which are the English, math, science and humanities courses common to the first two years of study at any college.

• HOW MANY CLASSES CAN A STUDENT TAKE PER YEAR?

  The number varies by program, but most students take two or three classes per semester depending on how early in high school they get started and how the college classes fit within the high school schedule time blocks. The State of Michigan expects local school districts to pay for up to 10 courses for eligible students during their overall high school career unless students are in Early Middle College.

• What is a syllabus, and why is it important?

  A college syllabus is one of the most important documents in a course because it serves as the official contract between the instructor and students. It outlines the course expectations, policies, assignments, grading criteria, and deadlines, providing a clear guide to help everyone understand their responsibilities throughout the semester. 

• How do students add, drop, or withdraw from a class?

  The add/drop period occurs at the beginning of each semester. During this time, students can adjust their class schedule without financial penalty. The exact dates are listed in the SMC Action Calendar.

  Add/Drop Procedure

  • The student submits a schedule change request to dualenrollment@swmich.edu.
  • The student must CC their high school counselor on the request.
  • Requests will not be processed until the high school counselor approves the change.
  • Once approved, the schedule is updated.
  • An enrollment report is then sent to the counselor.
  • The counselor may also submit schedule change requests on behalf of the student.

  Withdrawing from a course after the add/drop period may have significant academic and financial implications. The student is required to reimburse the high school for the cost of the college class.

  Withdrawal Procedure

  • The student submits a withdrawal request via email to dualenrollment@swmich.edu and the high school counselor must be included in this request.
  • The request must also include a brief explanation for the withdrawal.
  • If approved, a Dual Enrollment advisor processes the request.
  • The student receives a confirmation email to verify withdrawal intent.
  • Once confirmed by the student, the withdrawal is processed.
  • A grade is not issued, but a “W” appears on the transcript and is a permanent record.
  • Withdrawal requests must be submitted by the student.
• Can students take classes on their own time?

  If the student is at least the age of 14, has applied, been accepted, and can prove college readiness through a high school transcript and/or testing (PSAT, SAT, ACT, or Accuplacer), the student can take classes outside of their high school hours and/or in the summer months. All associated costs outside of high school hours will be the responsibility of the student.

• How do grades work?

  Students can view current course grades at any time through Moodle, SMC's learning management system. Final grades and unofficial transcripts are available through the Student Dashboard in SMC Wired. Questions about a grade or assignment should be directed to the course instructor.

  SMC provides academic warning notifications throughout the semester and final grades to each student's high school guidance counselor. The high school counselor helps monitor academic progress and can communicate information to parents as needed.

  Because Dual Enrollment courses become part of a student's permanent college transcript, strong academic performance is important. While a passing grade may earn college credit at SMC, many colleges and universities require a grade of "C" or higher to accept transfer credit. Earning a grade of "C" or better helps maximize the likelihood that credits will transfer to another institution in the future, and ensures the student earns their MTA Stamp provided they meet all the necessary requirements. 

• How do I communicate with instructors?

  Students are expected to communicate directly with their instructors if they:

  • Are unable to attend class
  • Will be late or need to leave early
  • Have questions or need clarification about coursework

  Instructors will include their preferred method of communication on the syllabus they provide at the beginning of each semester. Communication should be sent as early as possible, not after an absence or missed deadline.

  This is important because instructors are generally more willing to work with students who:

  • Communicate early
  • Take initiative
  • Show responsibility for their schedule and coursework
• Since I'm a high school student, what are the attendance expectations?

  Students are expected to attend all scheduled college classes, even when:

  • The high school is not in session (for example, spring break or holidays)
  • High school and college schedules do not align
  • There are differences between school calendars

  Extracurricular Activities & Conflicts

  If a student has a conflict due to:

  • Sports
  • School events
  • Extracurricular activities
  • Any other scheduled commitment

  The student must:

  • Notify the instructor as soon as possible
  • Understand that missing class or assignments may still affect their grade
  • Follow the instructor’s course policies regarding attendance, absences, and missed work
• Is a student's class performance monitored throughout the semester?

  SMC provides high school guidance counselors with academic warnings and final grades. The high school guidance counselor will be able to provide updates on the progress of the student to the student and his or her family.  Students can also see their current grades in the SMC Moodle platform and past grades in their Student Dashboard in SMC Wired.

• What is an academic warning?

  An academic warning is an early alert designed to help students succeed. Academic warnings are not disciplinary actions or punishments. Instead, they are intended to identify concerns early so that students can receive support before their performance is significantly impacted.

  Professors may initiate an academic warning when a student's performance is not meeting course expectations. Reasons may include:

  • Low or inconsistent class participation
  • Attendance concerns
  • Unsatisfactory academic performance (ex. low grades on assignments, quizzes/exams)
  • Other behaviors that may affect the student's ability to successfully complete the course

  The goal is to make students aware of concerns while there is still time to improve.

• What happens if an academic warning is submitted?

  When a professor submits an academic warning:

  1. The Dual Enrollment team receives the academic warning.
  2. The Dual Enrollment team forwards the warning to the student's high school counselor.
  3. The high school counselor notifies the student and may provide intervention, resources, or additional support as needed.

  This process ensures that students have a team working together to help them stay on track.

• Where Can Students View Their Academic Warnings?

  Students can view their academic warnings at any time by logging into Wired and checking their Student Dashboard.

  If a student receives an academic warning, they should:

  • Review the feedback provided by the professor
  • Reach out to the professor with any questions or concerns
  • Meet with the high school counselor, if additional support is needed
  • Attend class regularly, participate actively, and complete assignments on time
  • Utilize SMC’s free tutoring services

  Remember, academic warnings are intended to support student success. Taking action early can help a student improve performance and successfully complete the course.

• What happens if a student fails a class?

  SMC provides outstanding support for all students during their enrollment, including involved faculty, free tutoring services at both campuses, and an extensive library. An academic warning system provides notice if a student is struggling, and high school guidance counselors also monitor student progress. However, if despite all of these interventions, a student is unwilling or unable to do the work required for a passing grade, the failing grade will be entered into that student’s record at the high school and on their official SMC transcript. Also in that case, the high school district will require repayment of tuition by the student's family to the district.

Books and Supplies

Get info about the books and other materials you may need for class.

• Who pays for books?

  Many SMC courses require digital course materials (textbooks and supplies) that are embedded directly within the course in the learning management system—Moodle. However, some courses still require students to purchase or obtain a printed textbook or other supplies.

  The responsibility for the cost of textbooks and supplies varies by high school and program and is determined by the participating high school or intermediate school district. Students with questions regarding payment for books or supplies should contact their high school guidance office. Questions regarding billing may be directed to the SMC Business Office at 269-782-1298 or ecashier@swmich.edu.

• Where do I get my books?

  Books can be picked up at the bookstore on the Dowagiac Campus or ordered and delivered to the Niles Campus.

Student Services and Support

Take advantage of the student services and support available to all SMC students. 

• Does SMC offer tutoring?

  The Carole A. Tate Teaching and Learning Center (TLC) offers free tutoring, writing assistance, and academic support at both the Dowagiac and Niles campuses.

  Students can also develop test-taking and study skills, receive résumé assistance, access academic success resources, use computer labs and study spaces through the TLC, and receive assistance with their high school work. Virtual and in-person appointments may be made on Wired.

• Do I really need to go to a Dual-enrolled Student Orientation?

  Completing orientation is strongly recommended for students who are new to dual enrollment at SMC. The information students receive during orientation is critical to their success in a college environment. Research has shown that students who participate in orientation are much better prepared for college and are more successful overall in their college courses.

• What If I have a disability or need special accommodations?

  SMC's got you covered. Contact the Disability Services office for information.

• What if I need help with my student account, computer, or another technology-related issue?

  The SMC Help Desk provides technical support to students, faculty, and staff at both campus locations. Whether you need assistance with your account, software, Wi-Fi, or other technology-related issues, the Help Desk team is available to help. 

• Where do I get my student ID?

  Dual Enrollment students will have their pictures taken at New Student Orientation and can pick up their IDs at the Student Activity Center in Dowagiac or the Student Services Center on the Niles campus.  Student IDs offer access to the fitness facilities on both campuses, provide discounts, and serve as general identification at the testing center.   

  Students under the age of 18 must have a waiver on file signed by a parent/guardian allowing access to the fitness facilities.

Transportation

• Is a bus provided for students?

  SMC does not provide transportation for students. It is the responsibility of students to drive or find a ride to campus for their college classes.

  The availability of buses from the high school to either campus of SMC is entirely at the discretion of each school district. Students should contact their high school counselor or school representative for information regarding transportation options.

School Closures and Emergency Updates

Learn what happens during school closures and how to sign up for SMC's emergency management system.

• What happens during school closures?

  SMC generally aligns as much as possible with the local school districts when setting calendars and making the decision to close due to weather conditions.

  However, closures due to weather and scheduled breaks may differ between high schools and SMC. Dual enrollment students are responsible for attending class based on the SMC academic calendar. If a high school is closed but SMC is open, students are expected to attend SMC classes. Likewise, if SMC is closed but the high school is open, students are not required to attend SMC classes. Students should regularly check SMC communications for updates regarding weather-related closures or schedule changes. 

• Can I sign up for SMC's Emergency Messaging?

  Southwestern Michigan College utilizes the Rave Mobile Security system to inform students and employees about school closings, weather alerts, and other important information.

  While the college will alert all of its community members via email in an emergency, students and employees may also receive emergency messaging by text and phone call by signing up through the designated form. The same form can be used to update or correct any phone numbers the college has on file.

  To sign up for emergency messaging, click here.

Student Conduct and Other Policies

Check out some of the policies and information related to educational rights and privacy.

• Does SMC have a student conduct policy?

  Yes, and Dual Enrollment students are expected to abide by the same policies and procedures as traditional college students.

  Attending SMC means that students accept certain standards of conduct and are willing to abide by them. These standards, as well as possible disciplinary actions for violating the standards and the process used for determining, resolving, and appealing violations, are detailed in the Student Code of Conduct, which can be found in the Student Handbook. 

• What is the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and how does it pertain to Dual Enrollment students?
    The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a federal law that protects the privacy of a college student's educational records. Once a student attends college, their educational records belong to them—not their parents.

   

  High School

  In K–12 schools, parents generally have the right to:

  • View grades and report cards

  • Access attendance records

  • Meet with teachers and counselors

  • Review discipline records

  • Approve schedule changes and services

  • Access many educational records

  These rights are largely protected under the federal law known as Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).

  College

  Once a student attends college or turns 18, FERPA rights transfer from the parent to the student. This means colleges cannot share information with parents without the student’s permission.

  Parents cannot automatically access:

  • Grades

  • Class schedules

  • Student conduct records

  • Academic standing

  Students can grant permission if they fill out a FERPA Waiver Form

  • The student completes and signs the release form.

  • The student names specific individuals who are allowed access.

  • The college only shares information within the limits of what was authorized.

  • The student can update or revoke permissions later.

  Even when permission is granted, the student is still the primary contact. This means:

  • Colleges still communicate directly with the student first

  • Instructors are not required to respond to parent contact

  • Student remains responsible for communication and academic performance

  Parents can view academic information depending on what the student authorizes. If granted access, parents may be able to view:

  • Grades and GPA

  • Attendance records

  • Course schedules

  • Academic progress or standing

  Permission to parents to view the information does not override College policies. This means that FERPA access :

  • Does not allow parents to change grades or speak for the student

  • Does not replace student responsibility for deadlines, communication, or attendance

  • Does not guarantee instructor communication with parents

  Key Takeaway

  High school involves significant parent involvement, while college emphasizes student independence and privacy. Understanding these differences helps students prepare for greater responsibility and self-advocacy in college.