WCHS AP Program

FAQs for AP Courses

FAQs for Course Selection

Digital Exams

Non-Cross Students AP Policy

Advanced Placement (AP) Course Overview

AP courses feature a rigorous curriculum developed by the College Board. While students earn high school credit upon completion, the primary goal is to master college-level material in preparation for the mandatory AP Exams held each May.

College Credit & Scoring

While the College Board creates the exams, they do not grant college credit.

• University Autonomy: Each college or university independently decides whether to accept qualifying scores for program credit.

• No Local Control: Neither Wilbur Cross High School nor the College Board has the authority to dictate a university's credit transfer policy.

Student Expectations & Requirements

Success in an AP course requires a high level of dedication and consistent engagement with complex coursework. Enrollment carries the following specific obligations:

• Mandatory Testing: Students must sit for the official AP Exam during the scheduled testing window (typically the first two weeks of May).

• Transcript Integrity: If a student fails to take the exam, the "AP" designation will be removed from their transcript.

• GPA Impact: Failure to test results in a reduction in quality points; the course weight will drop from 5.0 to 4.5.

• Financial Responsibility: Students who do not sit for their scheduled exam are responsible for paying any associated unused exam fees.

Note: The AP designation and its associated GPA boost are contingent upon the completion of the national exam. Without the exam, the course is no longer recognized by the school district as Advanced Placement.

For a full list of courses, look at the course selection page.

AP Courses are not guaranteed. Read this to learn why.