Advanced Placement

College-level courses and examinations designed for motivated high school students.
Introduction to Advanced PlacementAP Subject AreasThe AP Exam Experience
College Credit and Placement PoliciesAdvanced Study Skills for AP SuccessInterdisciplinary Connections in AP
AP in College AdmissionsEarning Scholarships and Financial BenefitsLeveraging AP Skills in Everyday Life
Time Management for AP SuccessEffective Test-Taking Strategies
Introduction to Adva...AP Subject AreasThe AP Exam Experien...College Credit and P...Advanced Study Skill...Interdisciplinary Co...AP in College Admiss...Earning Scholarships...Leveraging AP Skills...Time Management for ...Effective Test-Takin...
Basic Concepts

Introduction to Advanced Placement

What is Advanced Placement?

Advanced Placement (AP) is a program created by the College Board that allows high school students to take college-level courses and exams. Succeeding in AP courses can earn you college credit, advanced placement, or both at many universities around the world.

Exploring the Benefits

  • Challenge yourself with rigorous academics.
  • Stand out in college applications.
  • Potentially save time and money in college by earning credits early.

How AP Works

Students choose from a variety of subjects—like AP Biology, AP Calculus, or AP U.S. History—then study the curriculum and take a standardized exam in May. Scores range from 1 to 5, with 3 or higher often considered passing.

Real-World Impact

AP courses teach time management, critical thinking, and study skills that are super useful in college and beyond!

Examples

  • A student takes AP Chemistry in high school and earns college credit after scoring a 4 on the exam.

  • Colleges may allow students who pass AP exams to skip introductory courses.

In a Nutshell

AP lets high schoolers take college-level courses and exams for potential credit.

Key Terms

College Board
An organization that designs AP courses and exams.
Credit
Recognition by colleges for completing course requirements.
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AP Subject Areas