About the AP program
About the AP program
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The Advanced Placement Program offers students the opportunity to take college-level courses and exams in high school and earn college credit, advanced placement, or both at many colleges and universities in the U.S. and around the world. They follow a specific set of curriculum in preparation for an exam in early May. By earning college credit in high school and skipping introductory courses in college, you can save time and money as they work toward a college degree.
Taking AP courses in high school could give you an advantage in college by letting you:
Taking AP courses in high school could give you an advantage in college by letting you:
Earn College Credit
Your AP score could earn you college credits before you even set foot on campus.
Earn Advanced Placement
Your AP score can let you skip introductory courses in college and can increase your pay in the armed forces.
Save Money and Time
Earning credit or placement can open up time on your schedule or even let you graduate early.
Students who take AP courses send a signal to colleges that they’re serious about their education and that they’re willing to challenge themselves with rigorous coursework.[1]
A Head Start in High School
A Head Start in High School
Research consistently shows that AP students are better prepared for college than students who don’t take AP. They’re more likely to enroll and stay in college, do well in their classes, and graduate in four years. Taking AP can help you:
Research consistently shows that AP students are better prepared for college than students who don’t take AP. They’re more likely to enroll and stay in college, do well in their classes, and graduate in four years. Taking AP can help you:
Get a Taste of College
Get a Taste of College
Get familiar with college-level work—and boost your confidence by tackling it.
Develop College Skills
Develop College Skills
Time management, critical thinking, scholarly writing—AP courses help you hone the skills you’ll need in college and career.
Discover Your Passion
Discover Your Passion
Studying a subject in depth could give you new insights and even put you on the path to a career. Learn to tap your creativity and your problem-solving skills to address course challenges.
College Admissions Leaders Support AP Students
College Admissions Leaders Support AP Students
These admissions officers from colleges across the country have encouraging words for students taking AP Exams this year.
By taking an AP Exam, you'll gain an advantage on your path to college.
Research shows that students who receive a score of 3 or higher on AP Exams typically experience greater academic success in college and have higher graduation rates than their non-AP peers.[3]
Research shows that students who take AP courses and exams are much more likely than their peers to complete a college degree on time[4]—which means they avoid paying for, for example, a fifth year of tuition.
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