AP Classes: Are They Worth It?

At the beginning of the Cold War, fears arose that American students were not meeting the academic standards of other countries, particularly the Soviet Union. From this concern, the AP (Advanced Placement) program was born. The pilot launched in 1952, and the College Board officially took over two years later, creating the program we know today. Each AP class is equivalent to one (or in some cases, two) semester(s) of a college course. In May, the students in the class take an exam and receive a grade on a scale of 1-5. Depending on the student’s score, he or she may receive college credit for taking the course.

Until the late 90s, AP classes were offered at only a small number of wealthy, predominantly white high schools. Over the past 25 years, this has drastically changed. As of 2017, roughly 70% of high schools across the United States offer AP classes.

Given the high level of material in an AP class, students can expect the course load to be rigorous. The standard amount of homework is an hour per night for each class. For students taking multiple APs, this can be overwhelming. Receiving low grades is not uncommon. Though grades for AP classes are weighted more heavily than Honors or A-Level classes, the “C” or “D” that appears on a transcript can feel overwhelming for many students. An anonymous member of the class of ‘24 says that “After tests… I’m not feeling too good. My mental health goes down. Either kids cheat and they do [well], or they’re naturally smart. I’m stuck in the B’s and C’s.”

When considering whether or not you want to take an AP class, it’s important to consider why. If the class is in a subject you dislike, or you want to take the class purely to receive college credit, you may want to do some rethinking. An anonymous member of the class of ‘23 says that “People take so many AP classes. It’s insane. They’re hard, you know? You have to put a lot of time into them to succeed.” Another member of the class of ‘23 says that “People take a lot of APs just because it might look good on their [college] applications. In the end, you’re losing your [mental] health over it. I feel like 2 APs is the most you should take. High school kids already don’t get enough sleep. AP homework is just going to add onto that.” Soumya Warty, class of ‘23, points out that “AP classes are very different from normal classes. People take multiple [APs] thinking that they’re going to do well and get college credit, but honestly, if you’re failing and have an F in the class, there’s no point in taking it.”

It’s important to remember to avoid peer pressure when considering taking an AP class. You may have friends taking multiple APs, but you shouldn’t feel the need to compare yourself with them. Even if you qualify for an AP, you may choose not to take it. And that’s okay. Anna Rosenkrantz, class of ‘24, shares that “This year, my junior year, I’ve decided to take all honors instead of taking an AP course, because junior year is already the hardest year of high school. I didn’t want to add extra stress by taking an AP, and so far, my grades are the best they’ve ever been.”

However, despite the difficulty of AP classes, many students enjoy them, or at least find the workload manageable. A member of the class of ‘24 says that “I don’t think they add more stress compared to Honors and A-Level classes. The thing that’s more difficult about AP classes is that there is much more independent learning that needs to be done, and we are expected to remember content from previous classes with little to no review.” Another member of the class of ‘24 talks specifically about his most rigorous AP class: “AP chem is a very challenging subject. However, it’s a lot of fun. You get to grow a lot, because it teaches you how you should study for other classes. It teaches you to collaborate with others, especially during labs, when you may not know exactly what you’re doing.” A member of the class of ‘23 adds that: “I think AP classes are not for everyone, but they’re a good opportunity for those who believe they can handle it. As someone who took 3 APs last year and is taking 5 APs this year, I admit there is a very large workload. However, I enjoy challenging myself, and in the end I value the learning experience over the final grade. I make sure to focus on my work, but I also make time for other things in my life, such as clubs, family, and most importantly, sleep. Knowing your limits and communicating with teachers is key.”

Before signing up for an AP class, one of the most important steps to take is talking to your guidance counselor, as well as other students who have taken the class. Consider all factors in your life that would affect your success and happiness in the class. Most importantly, don’t stress out too much! Remember that your well-being is most important. Good luck!