AP Fast Facts

• There are 38 AP courses in seven subject categories.

• Each AP course is modeled on a comparable introductory college course in the subject. Learn how AP courses are developed.

• Each course culminates in a standardized college-level assessment, or AP Exam.

• AP Exams are given in May each year at testing locations all over the world.

• Schools must be authorized by the AP Course Audit to offer approved AP courses and use the AP designation.

Benefits

Taking AP courses and exams can help students:

• Stand out on college applications. AP courses on a student’s transcript shows that they’ve challenged themselves with the most rigorous courses available to them. And success on an AP Exam shows that they’re ready for college-level coursework.

• Earn college credit and/or skip introductory courses in college. Most four-year colleges and universities in the United States—as well as many institutions in more than 100 other countries—grant students credit, placement, or both for qualifying AP Exam scores.