What are AP courses, and how do they differ from regular high school courses?
AP (Advanced Placement) courses are introductory college-level courses some high schools offer. About 70% of high schools offer at least some of the 38 AP courses, with an average of 8 available per school. In 2020, 2.6 million students took at least one AP class.
The value of AP classes is that students can earn college credits while they are still in high school. This makes them more attractive to admissions boards and enables students to complete their college studies quickly. College credits are only granted to students who score high enough on the AP exam, graded on a scale of 1 to 5. Each college and university has its own policy on which AP exam scores are accepted. Generally, a score of 3 or higher is required to earn college credit or advanced placement.
The exams are standardized and contain a mixture of multiple-choice and free-response questions. The intention is to test students' understanding of course content and ability to apply essential concepts. (A few AP classes, like art & design, are also graded based on a portfolio of work.) The College Board develops the course curricula, meaning that all high schools teach the same material.
AP courses differ from regular high school courses in several ways:
They are more rigorous and demanding, requiring students to have a strong foundation in the subject matter.
Students need strong critical thinking, problem-solving, and writing skills.
They prepare students for the workload and pace of studying at the college level.
They are graded on a 5-point scale and culminate in an end-of-year exam, which, when completed successfully, can earn college credits.
AP courses are an excellent way for students to challenge themselves, demonstrate their abilities, and get a head start on college. However, they also require a significant investment of time and effort. Students should carefully consider their interests, abilities, and free time before enrolling in one or more AP courses. Including homework, a student is expected to spend around 6 hours per week on each class.
2Sigma School offers College Board authorized AP Computer Science Principles and AP Computer Science A courses.