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Advanced Placement Exams

Advanced Placement (AP) exams are college-level tests administered by the College Board that allow high school students to earn college credit and/or qualify for more advanced classes when they begin college.

Overview​

Purpose​

  • Provide college-level learning opportunities in high school
  • Earn college credits before matriculation
  • Demonstrate academic excellence to colleges
  • Save time and money in college
  • Gain advanced standing in college courses

Administration​

  • Typically offered in May
  • Coordinated by the College Board
  • Administered at high schools worldwide
  • Registration through AP coordinators or schools
  • Special arrangements available for international students

Exam Structure and Scoring​

Scoring System​

  • Scale of 1 to 5:
    • 5: Extremely well qualified
    • 4: Well qualified
    • 3: Qualified
    • 2: Possibly qualified
    • 1: No recommendation

College Credit Policies​

Credit Awarding​

  • Varies by institution
  • Usually requires minimum score of 3
  • Some colleges require 4 or 5
  • Credit policies differ by department

Benefits​

  1. Academic

    • Skip introductory courses
    • Earlier access to advanced courses
    • Greater course selection flexibility
    • Possible early graduation

  2. Financial

    • Reduced tuition costs
    • Fewer required courses
    • Potential scholarship opportunities
    • Earlier graduation possibility