What is AP and is it right for you?

In high school, the task of scheduling classes can seem daunting, especially with the pressure from peers, family, and counselors. This article will help narrow down the differences between regular, honor, and AP (Advanced Placement) classes! Many students who wish to apply to college and pursue a post-secondary education wish to take on course loads that reflect their interests and future line of work. The best way to do so is by discovering what classes your school offers.

The basic distinction between regular, honors, and AP classes

Regular classes are often the base level classes, set on teaching students the base levels of a topic. The differences between honors and AP can be more challenging, depending on your school’s definition of honors classes. For most schools, an honors class is a level above regular classes, where more in-depth and difficult material is taught as well as being at a speedier pace.

AP classes, however, are usually regarded as some of the tougher courses that you can take in high school. AP classes are managed by the College Board, which is also in charge of the SAT. At the end of an AP class, you will be given an AP exam that goes along with whatever course you have chosen. These exams will be scored for college credit, and depending on where you apply, you may receive up to 2 semesters off, depending on your score. The passing score for an AP exam is a 3 and the maximum you may score is a 5. College Board currently offers around 38 AP classes. However, most schools do not have all 38 offered in schools, so you will need to check your school’s course catalog or talk to your school counselor to sign up.

AP classes can often be stressful yet rewarding.

Most AP classes require work to be done outside of class. These classes often need students to study and do homework outside of the class, as there are many units to cover in seemingly very little time. Time management is also very, very crucial for these courses! AP classes are designed to make you take your comprehension and understanding of topics to the next level. Most AP classes rely little on memorization, but rather, tend to focus on the application of whatever your instructor has taught you and what you have taught yourself. You will likely have to teach yourself many of the topics you come across in these classes, as some can be skipped over by teachers because of a lack of time. Thankfully, resources like Knowunity and Khan Academy exist for that exact reason!

At the end of the day, AP classes are tough courses to take, however, you may benefit from them.

You could find your passion for a new topic that you never thought you’d be interested in, like Psychology or Music Theory! AP courses require attention, focus, time management, and interest from the students taking them. If you believe you can achieve that, I’d say you should consider taking an AP course.