What Are AP Courses?
- Definition: AP courses are advanced high school classes that follow a curriculum developed by the College Board. They cover material typically taught in introductory college courses.
- Benefits:
- College Credit: Scoring well on AP exams can earn you college credit, allowing you to skip introductory courses.
- College Readiness: AP courses prepare you for the academic rigor of college.
- Boosted GPA: Many high schools weigh AP courses, so an A in an AP class might be worth more than an A in a regular class.
- Intellectual Challenge: AP courses delve deeper into subjects, encouraging critical thinking and analysis.
Popular AP Courses by Grade Level
9th & 10th Grades
- AP Human Geography: Explore global patterns, cultures, and human interactions.
- AP World History: Modern: Study world history from 1200 CE to the present.
- AP European History: Dive into European history and culture.
- AP Seminar: Develop research and presentation skills.
- AP Computer Science Principles: Understand fundamental concepts of computer science.
- AP World Languages and Cultures: Learn languages like Spanish, French, or Chinese.
11th Grade
- AP English Language and Composition: Enhance your writing and rhetorical skills.
- AP U.S. History: Explore American history and its impact.
- AP Psychology: Understand human behavior and mental processes.
- AP Biology or AP Physics 1: Dive into life sciences or physics.
- AP Seminar or AP Research: Continue developing research skills.
- AP Art and Design Program: Express creativity through art.
12th Grade
- AP English Literature and Composition: Analyze literature and refine writing skills.
- AP U.S. Government and Politics: Study the U.S. political system.
- AP Calculus AB or AP Statistics: Tackle advanced math.
- AP Psychology: Delve deeper into psychological concepts.
- AP Research: Conduct independent research.
- AP Computer Science Principles or AP Computer Science A: Explore coding and algorithms.
- AP World Languages and Cultures: Master language proficiency.
- AP Art and Design Program: Showcase your artistic talent.
How to Choose AP Courses
- Talk to Your Counselor: Schedule time with your school counselor to explore available AP courses.
- Review Prerequisites: Some AP courses recommend prerequisites. Check if there are other courses you should take before registering.
- Consider Your Interests: Choose courses related to your passions and potential career paths.
- Explore AP Potential™: If you’ve taken the SAT®, PSAT/NMSQT®, or PSAT™, your score report includes personalized AP course recommendations.
Remember, AP courses are an investment in your education. They challenge you, expand your knowledge, and prepare you for the future. So, whether you’re aiming for that college credit or simply love learning, embrace the AP journey! 
