Advanced Placement (AP) is a rigorous academic program that offers students to pursue college-level study material while they are still in high school. Taking AP courses and exams helps students make their profile stand out during the college admission process and gives an opportunity to earn credits. Universities across the world look favorably upon students who have taken AP courses and exams as the performance demonstrates to the admission officers the student’s commitment and ability to succeed at college-level studies. upon students who have taken AP courses and exams as the performance demonstrates to the admission officers the student’s commitment and ability to succeed at college-level studies.
Students can increase their competency in a particular field of study by taking subjects they are interested in, even if the subjects are not available at school. AP courses aid in developing critical thinking, reasoning abilities, problem solving and communication skills that are essential for success in college and beyond. Resorting to AP courses is especially helpful for Indian students because methodologies of Indian curriculum are way different than what is practiced abroad, utilizing the benefits of the course can familiarize students with the pattern and structure of teaching processes.
In India, over 25 different subjects across Sciences, Mathematics, Arts, Languages and Social Science are developed by American Professors—teaching in top schools such as Harvard, Columbia and University of Pennsylvania, etc.—along with expert high-school teachers. AP courses are taught in several schools but, if a school does not have this facility, a student can take an online AP course from an authorized AP provider. However, some students may choose to study on their own. The tests can be taken in 11 or 12 grade or both, and it is conducted in the month of May every year. Depending on the subject, the length of the test can vary between 90-200 minutes.
Below is the list of reasons which can help you decide why you should take an AP course :
Better Prepared for College – AP classes sharpen the student’s skills and while it compels you think critically, the classes will also improve your problem-solving abilities. You will be able to navigate the academic expectations of the college with more ease if you have studied an AP course.
Earn Credits – AP exams are scored on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest). If a student earns a 3 or higher, s/he is eligible to receive course credits, advanced placement or both upon arriving at college.
Students are Challenged– Since AP classes are highly rigorous and demanding, students would be intellectually stimulated which is unlikely in regular high-school study.
Increase Admission Chances– Students coming with good high-school record along with AP scores adds the oomph factor and immediately catches the attention of the admission officers. A score above 3 in APs signals to the admissions team that the student is ready for the pressures of college curriculum.
Easy Access to Scholarships– AP courses and exam scores help the students qualify for scholarships easily.
Before students enroll for AP classes however, it is crucial to consider whether the student will be able to carry the extra burden or not. Like mentioned above, the curriculum of an AP course is equivalent to undergraduate college courses, it may not be suitable for some students due to the demands of the course. Thus, it is advisable to consider the following points:
Past Performance in the Subject – If a student excels in science, taking AP Chemistry would be a great idea. But, if the student tends to struggle with Mathematics, taking AP Calculus will be too much of an ordeal and hence one is recommended notto take it.
Student’s Capacity – AP courses in humanities–English, Psychology, Philosophy, History, etc.– require extensive amounts of reading and writing thus it’s important to consider whether the student would be able to devote time to long, difficult reading assignments, essays, and in-depth research papers. Incapacity to handle too many things will be counter-productive hence refrain from it.
Schedule – A student active in sports or other extra-curricular activities may find it challenging to simultaneously meet the obligations of an AP class so, think cautiously before joining.
GPA should NOT be Compromised – No student is recommended to take an AP course if s/he thinks it might lower the overall GPA. While the admissions team wants to see how a student performs in taxing courses, their priority is to see strong grades. Under no circumstances should a student compromise with his/her GPA scores.
It is to be noted by students that you can get access to the complete list of AP courses at The College Board website. Students can also ask their school counsellors about AP classes available at school and can choose to take two to five AP classes during their high school years. However, looking at the depth and intensiveness of the course, the student should take no more than two AP courses per year. Striking a balance between work and play is essential. Taking too many classes can scuttle your social life and cause extreme anxiety, which we certainly do not want.
High AP score (anything between 3-5) might exempt you from certain general education or prerequisite classes. However, exemptions depend from college to college, as receiving a 3 on your AP Chemistry might qualify you at some schools, while others might require a 5. Thus, go through the website of the schools you are applying, to understand their eligibility criterion before enrolling in AP classes.