The Advanced Placement (AP) Program

The Advanced Placement (AP) Program, run by CollegeBoard, is an exam-based Dual Credit option that offers the ability to earn college credit and placement through AP Exams. Liberty High School offers a variety of AP classes, viewable on the AP webpage of the LHS Online Course Guide. Not every class is offered every year; Consult with your counselor to inquire about specific courses for specific years.

Will colleges accept my AP scores for credit?

There is no universal answer to this question, it is different for each college. AP scores are recognized by many colleges and could earn you college credit and/or or advanced placement (meaning you can skip certain courses in college). Use the AP Credit Policy Search tool to find what credit specific colleges offer for AP scores.

How many AP classes should I take?

The number of AP classes you choose to take depends on several factors, including: 

• The course rigor required by the colleges you're applying to 

• Your ability to perform well in AP classes 

• The balance you need to create between school and other life activities 

There is not a magic number of AP classes which will guarantee doors will open for you, at every school. Read this US News and World Article, How many AP classes should I take?, to explore this topic further. 

Is it better to take AP or Running Start?

This is a very popular question and the answer can differ depending on the college you're looking at.  Also, the answer can depend on WHY you are pursuing dual credit.  To help aid you in your discovery, visit these online articles to learn more about these dual credit options, their similarities and differences, popular opinions, and pros & cons:

• AP vs. Dual Enrollment: The Pros & Cons of Each Program Research.com fact-based article with a lot of good things to consider

• Running Start vs. AP: Making the right decision for you Blog article by a Running Start Student on ReadyWA website

• Does AP or Dual Enrollment Look Good on College Applications? College Reality Check Article

• College Classes in High School: Is AP or Community College Better? PrepScholar Article

• How to Decide Between AP vs Dual Enrollment Courses Achieve Academy Article 

Recommended Resources

• How many AP classes should I take? US News and World Article addressing a lot of our FAQs many of the most common AP questions we get

• Is it better to take AP or Running Start?

  • AP vs. Dual Enrollment: The Pros & Cons of Each Program Research.com fact-based article with a lot of good things to consider

  • Running Start vs. AP: Making the right decision for you Blog article by a Running Start Student on ReadyWA website

  • Does AP or Dual Enrollment Look Good on College Applications? College Reality Check Article

  • College Classes in High School: Is AP or Community College Better? PrepScholar Article

  • How to Decide Between AP vs Dual Enrollment Courses Achieve Academy Article