What is an AP course?

An AP course is an advanced placement class that offers college-level curriculum and exams in high school.

How can AP courses benefit my college application?

Taking AP courses shows colleges you’re willing to challenge yourself and can improve your college admission chances.

Do AP courses mean I can earn college credits?

Yes, scoring well on AP exams can earn you college credits, which may save time and money in college.

Are AP courses more stressful than regular classes?

AP courses are typically more rigorous and demanding, which can increase stress but also build strong study habits.

Can I balance AP courses with extracurricular activities?

It can be challenging but managing your time well allows you to successfully juggle AP classes and activities.

What happens if I don’t do well in an AP course?

You won’t lose anything by trying, and you can learn from the experience, but a low exam score means no college credit.

Do all high schools offer the same AP courses?

No, AP course availability varies by school, so check with your counselor about what’s offered.

Will AP courses prepare me better for college?

Yes, AP classes often build skills like critical thinking and time management that help in college.

Is an AP course right for everyone?

Not necessarily; consider your workload and interests before committing to AP classes.

How do I decide which AP courses to take?

Choose subjects you’re passionate about and feel confident in to maximize benefits and enjoyment.

Considering taking A.P classes in high school? Before you take the plunge, here's guest contributor Erica Long with her list of pros and cons for you to consider.

A.P. classes, which stand for Advanced Placement, are college level classes that you can take in high school. While these classes can be hard and fast paced there are many benefits to taking them, but there are also some cons to consider.

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1. Pro: You Can Get College Credit

If you make a 3,4, or 5 on the AP Exam at the end of the course you can receive some college credit, which would mean that is one less class to take in college and less money you have to pay.

2. Pro: It Prepares You for College

Because the class is essentially a college class, it is at a faster pace and at a more challenging level than other classes. This will give you an idea of how a college class will be and while your other classmates are struggling their first year in college, you will be slightly more prepared.

3. Pro: It Boosts Your ACT and SAT Scores

Studies show that students who take A.P. level classes tend to go up in their ACT or SAT scores.

4. Pro: the a Counts for 5 Points Instead of 4

Ever wonder how some students manage to earn higher than a 4.0? They took A.P. classes. Usually, an A counts as 4 pts, a B 3 pts, a C 2pts, a D 1pt, and an F 0 pts. On an A.P. grading scale the A counts as 5 pts, the B 4 pts, the C 3 pts, the D 2 pts, and the F 1pt. Making a good grade in an A.P. class can really boost your G.P.A.

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5. Pro: It Looks Good on Applications

Colleges love to see students who take A.P. classes! It shows you are a good student and that you can handle college life.

6. Con: You Cannot Be Lazy

In an A.P. class there is little room for slacking off and being lazy. The class is usually fast paced and if you do not do your homework you could quickly fall behind.

7. Con: It Can Be Overwhelming

If you are already struggling in school taking an A.P. class may not be the right choice for you. An A.P. class can take up a lot of your time and if you don't think you can keep up with the work or you aren't willing to put the work needed into the class then don't take one.

8. Con: the a.P. Exam is Tough

The A.P. Exam is hard. It is set up to where you are not expected to get everything right. The exam is also timed which just adds to the pressure. To make a 3, 4, or 5 you must be dedicated to studying and working hard.

While taking A.P. classes may seem intimidating there are many benefits of taking them. If you are a hard working student then A.P. classes are for you. Not only can you receive college credit , but you also are learning valuable skills you will need later on in college. Remember though, there are some downfalls to taking A.P. classes too, so be careful when considering to take one.

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Feedback Junction

Where Thoughts and Opinions Converge

Alyssa
2015-05-23T03:47:30.404Z
Just do all of the reading and study for the tests. For the AP Exam in April, get a Barron's Guide or something similar for that subject because it helps A LOT
Elena
2014-02-14T23:01:35.453Z
Thank you! I really needed this for registration
Mika
2014-02-14T23:07:58.924Z
Yes taking 6 at the same time is hard, AP exams are hard especially since CB started changing the tests and making them harder.
Alexandra
2014-02-14T18:53:22.760Z
I'm sitting in one of my AP classes as I read this, and I completely agree!
Ellie
2014-09-03T02:47:15.212Z
I wouldn't do it unless you're prepared for 1-3 hours of homework in the class each night, I'm currently in my second AP class and I found that unless you have the time to truly dedicate yourself to the class and have no extra-circulars, then an AP class is a waste of your time and money
Nycole
2014-02-14T15:32:04.906Z
What about Honors classes?
Sabrina
2014-02-15T01:29:08.798Z
I'm in four AP tests right now and I'm taking 5 next year. Like in your article, I think the pros definitely outweigh the cons! Certain people can't handle AP classes, but my friends and I all have very little trouble with them. Once you get your eyes on the prize (a passing score and an A in the class) it's relatively easy to succeed in any AP class!
Annie
2014-09-03T04:03:43.440Z
I thought if you failed the AP exam then that whole course would go down the drain?
Pannacotta
2014-05-25T03:07:03.090Z
I took AP classes in high school because my dad forced me. he bought into the whole hype that I wouldn't get into a good college unless I took them. I have to say they were very hard for me and I was not ready for them. And because of this, I started to think I wouldn't be able to handle college either if that was what it was going to be like. I graduated college last year and I have to say, some classes were harder than others, but none were nearly as hard as the AP classes I took in high school lol