Advanced Placement (AP) is a program in the United States and Canada created by the College Board which offers college-level curricula and examinations to high school students. AP is accepted by most colleges and universities as equivalent to a semester or year of introductory college-level coursework.
The AP program was created by the College Board in 1955.
The first AP exams were administered in 1956.
In 1965, the College Board took over administration of the AP exams from the American Council on Education.
In 1987, the first AP Computer Science exam was administered.
The number of students taking AP exams has increased dramatically since the program's inception.
In 2019, more than 2.8 million students took over 5 million AP exams.
The International Baccalaureate (IB) is another high school program that offers college-level coursework and exams. IB is accepted by more than 2,000 universities worldwide.
Dual Enrollment programs allow high school students to simultaneously earn high school and college credit by taking courses at a local community college or university.
AP Exams are college-level exams offered in 38 different subject areas. Students who earn a score of 3 or higher on an AP Exam may be eligible to receive college credit or placement into higher-level college courses.
AP Courses are high school courses that cover college-level material. Students who take AP Courses are encouraged to take the corresponding AP Exam to receive college credit or placement.
AP Capstone is a two-year high school program that consists of two AP courses: AP Seminar and AP Research. The program is designed to teach students critical thinking, research, and communication skills.
AP courses can provide challenging coursework, potentially earn college credit, demonstrate intellectual curiosity and academic rigor to colleges, and potentially boost college applications.
The cost of each AP exam is $95 in the United States. Some schools may offer a reduced fee or fee waiver for students with financial need.
No, students can self-study for an AP exam without taking the corresponding AP course. However, taking the course can provide helpful guidance and structure for preparing for the exam.
A score of 3 or higher on an AP exam is considered a passing score and can potentially earn college credit. However, what is considered a 'good' score varies depending on the college or university's credit policies.
Yes, international students can take AP exams. The exams are administered at various international locations, although availability may vary depending on the location.