New York State Education Department Proposes Bold, Statewide Regulations to Support Equitable Dual Enrollment Opportunities for Students

The New York State Education Department today proposed regulations that would establish the State's first-ever comprehensive, statewide dual enrollment policy. Dual enrollment programs allow high school students to earn college credit while completing their graduation requirements, giving them a powerful head start on higher education. Research consistently shows that these programs improve student outcomes, from increasing high school graduation rates to boosting college enrollment and degree completion.

New York has the third-largest dual enrollment population in the country, but until now, no statewide framework existed to ensure consistent quality and accountability. These proposed regulations change that by building an ambitious, equity-driven foundation where students-especially those who have been historically underserved-can benefit from the potential of dual enrollment.

Chancellor Lester W. Young, Jr. said, "This proposal builds upon the Board's unwavering commitment to equity and excellence. With these regulations, we are rewriting the playbook to make sure dual enrollment is rigorous and informed by data. This is about building stronger partnerships and creating pathways to opportunity that will shape lives for generations to come."

Commissioner Betty A. Rosa said, "These proposed regulations are equity in action. By setting clear statewide standards for dual enrollment programs and strengthening partnerships between P-12 schools and colleges, we are leveling the playing field. In these programs, students have the chance to earn college credit, build confidence, and step into their future prepared to succeed in college, careers, and beyond."

Highlights of the Proposed Regulations:

• Partnership Agreements: By September 1, 2026, school districts, charter schools, and Boards of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) (P-12 partners) with a dual enrollment program must submit a partnership agreement with participating colleges and universities on a form provided by the Department. These agreements will outline the scope and terms of the dual enrollment program and must be updated at least every five years.
• Data Reporting: The P-12 and higher education partners must annually submit participation and outcome data to the Department, which will be published on the Department's website each year to ensure transparency.
• College Course Standards: Dual enrollment college courses must be credit-bearing, included in the partner institution of higher education's course catalog, and have the same or comparable learning outcomes, content, and rigor as other sections of the course, regardless of delivery format or location.

A Notice of Proposed Rule Making will be published in the State Register on September 24, 2025, opening a 60-day public comment period.

For more information, please visit the Department's website.