The Advanced Placement (AP) program provides an opportunity for students to pursue college-level studies while still in high school. Students may show mastery in these courses by taking the AP exams that are administered in May of each school year.

Enrollment in an AP course may benefit students in several ways. The main advantage is in providing an academic background that will better prepare students for college. These courses allow students to experience the rigor of taking a college course while providing valuable content that will build the foundation for future academic pursuits. 

If students opt to take the AP Exam for the course, they may be able to receive college credit dependent upon their score in on the exam. Each college/university sets its own policy for awarding AP credit, determining which score is successful and how much college credit will be awarded. The College Board also provides this tool where you can search to find the minimum AP Score Required to be awarded credit by course or by college.

Students should contact the college/university they are interested in attending to inquire about the AP policy for that institution. Many colleges also have a section on their admissions website that explains their AP credit policy.

There is no charge for taking an AP class; however, a fee is required by the College Board if a student chooses to take the exam for a subject. Eligible students with financial need may receive reduced fees depending on federal and state funding. Typically, the full fee is around $90; the fees are set by College Board and do vary annually.

Any student who is interested in participating in Advanced Placement should talk with his/her school counselor. Students may enroll in the Advanced Placement courses based on past academic performance and teacher recommendation.