Colleges are interested in admitting students who challenge themselves. Not only can you impress colleges with your academic prowess, but you’ll feel more prepared for college level courses once you get there. Here’s how they are similar to college curricula—they require advanced critical thinking, problem solving, and effective writing skills.
Make sure you are taking ( or not taking) the appropriate AP classes A word of warning: don’t EVER take an AP course in a subject you don’t like. That’s a recipe for disaster! It’s important to hand pick the classes that make sense for you. Also, don’t overload yourself with too many AP classes just because your friends are taking them. Remember…your academic path is unique, just like you are.
Strong AP scores can earn you college credits. Scores for AP tests range from 1-5; some colleges award credit to students with a score of 3 or higher, others require a 4 or 5 (while still others won’t give any college credit at all). There are many factors at play here…which college you matriculate to, what your college major is, and what your particular score was for each subject.
More college credit leads to greater flexibility – The more college credits you are awarded, the more freedom you will have to explore academically. Also, by not having to take the lower-level courses, you can move into upper-level courses sooner and complete your major more quickly. Having the chance to graduate early, save money OR be able to experiment more widely with intriguing academic options can be quite liberating, especially after so many years of being locked into a rigid high school schedule. So take some AP classes if your teachers and counselors feel you are a good candidate, but choose wisely before you enroll.
Call us at (818) 207-0263 for further advice on choosing AP classes that make sense for you.
