AP courses give students the opportunity to stretch academically within a nationally consistent learning framework. Because the AP curriculum is recognized across the country, colleges—particularly highly selective universities—can easily understand the rigor students have completed when reviewing transcripts.

Students choose AP because it offers:

• Nationally recognized rigor that builds strong academic skills.

• Clear comparability across high schools, helping college admissions offices understand a student’s level of challenge.

• Opportunities for potential college credit or advanced placement based on AP exam scores.

• Preparation for future college coursework, expectations, and academic workloads.

• Stronger college applications, especially for students applying to selective or competitive programs.

• A standardized curriculum and exam structure used nationwide, giving students a consistent, proven pathway to college readiness. 

AP courses provide direct, tangible advantages that support students academically and in their postsecondary plans.

Students enrolled in AP gain:

• College Credit Potential – Many colleges award credit for qualifying AP exam scores, helping reduce tuition or time to degree.

• Advanced Placement – Strong scores may allow students to skip introductory college courses.

• Skill Development – AP courses strengthen reading, writing, analysis, lab skills, quantitative reasoning, and academic stamina.

• Preparation for College Expectations – Students practice managing long-term assignments, independent learning, and exam-style assessments.

• Transferability Opportunities – Some Minnesota colleges apply AP equivalencies toward the Minnesota Transfer Curriculum (MnTC).

Students who thrive in AP courses are motivated learners ready for college-level expectations. They typically:

• Manage their time, responsibilities, and deadlines effectively. 

• Engage deeply in challenging readings, problem-solving, and class discussions.

• Advocate for themselves and seek help when needed.

• Balance AP coursework with other academic and personal commitments.

• Meet all MHS prerequisites and expectations for AP enrollment.

While AP courses offer many benefits, students should consider the following before enrolling:

• Course rigor is significantly higher than standard high school classes.

• AP exams are optional but encouraged for students seeking potential college credit.

• Credit is not guaranteed—each college sets its own AP score and credit policies.

• Course pacing is fast and requires strong study habits and consistent effort.

• Students taking multiple AP courses should carefully consider their overall workload.

Monticello High School currently offers AP classes in the following subjects*:

• AP Art

• Biology

• Statistics

• Physics

• Government

• Calculus AB

• Calculus BC

Offerings subject to change based on student enrollment numbers and instructor availability.