The AP Tests

Advanced Placement Program® (AP®) courses reflect what is taught in top introductory college courses. AP courses prepare students to take the College Board Advanced Placement examination given in late spring of each school year. Students may be granted Advanced Placement status and/or college credit on the basis of how well they perform on these tests.

For Arizona schools click here to see how your score(s) and credit(s) could transfer to Arizona colleges and universities.   Always check with your target college to see how your AP test score will transfer as college credit.

• AP courses can be challenging; however, the benefits and skills students are taught in class will benefit them in post secondary college courses and career path.

•  AP courses are often the most interesting and fulfilling courses a student takes in high school.

•  AP teachers are among the most prepared, dedicated, and inspiring teachers at their schools.

•  Students develop confidence, and learn the study habits and time management skills essential for success in college

•  31% of colleges and universities consider a student’s AP experience when making decisions about which students will receive scholarships.

•  A recent study showed that students taking AP courses and exams were much more likely to earn a college degree in four years 

•  A recent study showed that students who earned a 3, 4, or 5 on the AP exam had higher first-year college grade point averages and were more likely to return for the second year of college than non-AP students of similar ability.

A Path to Your Future: Click here to match college majors and careers with the AP courses that can help you get there. 

• AP courses typically demand more of students than regular or honors courses and reflect what is taught in introductory college courses.

• AP classes tend to be fast-paced and cover more material than typical high school classes therefore students must expect to spend more time, inside and outside of the classroom, to complete lessons, assignments and homework. Note that AP courses are exempt from BFHS R&R weekends. 

• AP teachers expect their students to think critically, analyze and synthesize facts and data, weigh competing perspectives, and write clearly and persuasively.

• English: Language and Composition (11th grade), Literature (12th grade) 

• Foreign Language: (levels-based, 10th-12th grade) Spanish 

• History: European History (10th grade), U.S. History (11th grade), Government (12th grade), Economics (12th grade)

• Math: (levels-based, 10th-12th grade) Calculus AB, Calculus BC, Statistics 

• Science: (levels-based, 10th-12th grade) Biology, Physics, Chemistry

• Social Science: Psychology (10th-12th grade)

AP Exams are administered by schools worldwide on set dates each May.  Exam dates are TBD. Each AP Exam contains multiple-choice questions and free-response questions (essay, problem-solving, oral response). Exams usually last around three hours. For current exam information, visit College Board. 

• Many four-year colleges and universities in the United States offer credit for Advanced Placement for qualifying AP Exam scores. 

• Students earn credit toward their college degrees. Students should research the college/universities AP policies to have the most up-to-date information.

• Students can skip introductory courses and move directly into higher-level classes, and/or fulfill general education requirements for some colleges and universities

• Future monetary savings: Passing an exam means likely saving money during college.

After you've discussed your options with your parents or family, and you have visited exploreap.org to learn more about the AP program, make an appointment with your Academic Adviser to have an AP course added to your schedule.