Top universities like to see AP classes on an applicant’s transcripts for a variety of reasons. It shows an applicant’s commitment to their education and that they are not afraid to take classes that will challenge them to think deeper and master even more skills. If you want to go to a good college you need to take rigorous coursework. This means you need to take up AP classes. AP offers college-level courses and exams that one can take while still in high school (Classes 9 through 12). APs are widely recognized by colleges in the US and Canada. The AP exam can be written even if AP courses are not offered at your school. AP exams are conducted once a year for 2 weeks in the month of May. They are offered in various subjects and are the most challenging standardized tests.
What are AP classes?
AP stands for advanced placements and it is a designation given to specific classes to go above and beyond the standard requirements for the subject. AP program is administered by the college board, a non-profit organization whose mission is to connect students to college success. AP classes are available on 38 courses including the arts, english, history, social sciences, math, computer science, foreign languages, and seminar.
AP consists of the following subject:
AP Calculus AB
AP Calculus BC
AP Computer Science A
AP Computer Science Principles
AP Statistics
AP Art and Design Program
AP Art History
AP Music Theory
AP Biology
AP Chemistry
AP Environmental Science
AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based
AP Physics 2: Algebra-Based
AP Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism
AP Physics C: Mechanics
AP English Language and Composition
AP English Literature and Composition
AP Chinese Language and Culture
AP French Language and Culture
AP German Language and Culture
AP Italian Language and Culture
AP Japanese Language and Culture
AP Latin AP Spanish Language and Culture
AP Spanish Literature and Culture
AP Comparative Government and Politics
AP European History
AP Human Geography
AP Macroeconomics
AP Microeconomics
AP Psychology
AP United States Government and Politics
AP United States History
AP World History: Modern
If you’re thinking about taking AP Physics and want to know more about it, then you can check here.
AP classes consist of additional instructions in the classroom as well as standardized AP tests at the end of the year. Scores are given from 1 to 5 based on the level of mastery demonstrated in the exam.
5 equals extremely well qualified
4 equals well qualified
3 equals qualified.
2 equals possibly qualified
1 equals no recommendation
Many colleges consider passing scores as 3, 4, or 5.
To know more about AP Score: Check here
Are certain AP classes more important than others?
It goes without saying that all AP classes are rigorous and will help high school students for college but there are certain courses that will provide a broader foundation. Most universities require freshmen to complete a basic list of core classes which usually include English, math, and science. The AP classes offer core curriculum courses that are most likely to be accepted by the colleges to apply as credits needed for graduation. Even if college does not allow credit, students who have a strong foundation in the courses or classes have an easier time adjusting to the routine of a college class. Some of the colleges also intend to see that you have taken AP classes in the subjects you want to take up as a major. It is okay if you don’t have a set idea yet. If you know you want to be a doctor and include that in your admissions Essay they would like to know why you did not pursue AP Biology. As this is a way meant for you to develop a deeper understanding of a subject to that you want to devote your work life, you should try to start that journey as soon as possible.
How many AP classes should you take?
Enrolling in a lot of challenging AP courses is impressive but if you do not include space for the required classes for your graduation you just can’t make it work. Once you ensure that your plan includes all required courses you can look at increasing the rigor in your matrix by including AP classes. Start with the core classes that can take the place of other requirements. For example, you are required to take an English class and see if an English course is required through an AP Programme. The same can be true for advanced science, math, history, and social science classes. It is a great way to hit 2 birds with one stone. Many competitive applicants from the top universities take anywhere between 7 to 10 AP classes throughout high school. Keep that in mind as you choose your classes. Some universities also require students to take multiple AP classes in order for any of them to count as college credits. To best prepare yourself you should always challenge yourself and AP classes can be a great way to do that. Most AP classes cover advanced topics; this often means taking multiple AP courses at once. This can be a lot for many students to handle but you should be prepared to take the increasing workload. In general AP classes require more time than standard classes. Taking multiple classes at once may mean that you give up time to pursue sports, extracurriculars, hobbies, and social time.
What to consider before enrolling in an AP class?
Honestly consider where you are with the foundation level skills and study habits before enrolling in an AP class. It is important to consider individual preparation for an individual AP class. Some have prerequisite classes that a student must complete before he is allowed to enroll. To ensure the student has the foundational skills needed to be successful in that class. If you do not have the needed prerequisite knowledge and skills, you will have a very hard time keeping up in a particular AP class and may be better off enrolling in one that better utilizes your academic background. Do consider the questions from the college board conversation starters before enrolling in an AP class. It is helpful to talk about these things with your counselor, teacher, or your parents. If you can talk to current AP students to know what will it be like to be in their shoes
How can you prepare for upcoming AP Exams? Check here.
Important DOs and DON’Ts of AP classes
DO
Do your research and determine which APs are right for you.
Do take the required prerequisite
Do keep up the challenging coursework
Do develop a support system to help you succeed
Do take the test seriously it can help you get free college credits
DON’T
Don’t enroll in AP classes you are not interested in
Don’t enroll in AP classes that you do not have a strong foundation in
Don’t put off your AP coursework until the last minute
Don’t stress yourself by taking too many AP classes at once
Our expert instructors will help you reach your target score with an effective strategy. This information was surely a lot to digest. If you still have unanswered questions feel free to reach out to us.
