What is the Advanced Placement Program?

The Advanced Placement (AP) Program is a program administered by The College Board that allows students to enroll in college level courses at their local high school. Students show mastery of the AP course by taking the corresponding AP examination in May of the school year. Students who score a 3, 4, or 5 on the AP examination may earn college credit and/or "advance placement" in college.

What are the advantages of taking an AP course?

The main advantage of taking an AP course is better preparation for the rigor of college. It has been shown that college students who have taken AP courses and examinations are more likely to graduate in four years than their peers. In addition, students who take AP examinations may earn college credit while still in high school, saving time and money. Credit on AP examinations can save on tuition costs and/or count as credit in one or more courses.

How do AP courses compare to other high school courses?

As stated earlier, AP courses are college level courses. AP teachers attend specialized training to be able to deliver college level instruction. Therefore, AP courses require more time commitment and a greater workload.

What preparation is needed to take an AP course?

The content of AP courses is more challenging than that of a typical high school course. The earlier students prepare for AP or college courses by taking the most challenging courses available, the more likely their success will be. The keys to success are academic preparation, motivation, and self-discipline.

What if my student has a documented disability?

Students with documented disabilities may be eligible for accommodations on AP examinations. Examples of accommodations include, but are not limited to extended time, alternate formats, and use of computers on essays. An individual education plan on file at Washington High School, does not automatically qualify a student for accommodations. The College Board Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD) determines eligibility.

The SSD eligibility is a process that must be started well before AP examination administration. All students requesting accommodations must submit a request for accommodations to SSD, and in many cases, additional documentation. The process takes a minimum of seven weeks from the receipt of all necessary documentation and accommodation eligibility. Parents and students at Washington High School work with Mrs. Hankins to gather and submit the requested documentation online. Detailed information regarding the SSD processes is available at www.collegeboard.org/ssd

How much does it cost to take an AP course? AP examination?

There is no cost for a student at Washington High School to take an AP course offered in the Program of Studies. However, there is a fee to take an AP examination. The fee is set by The College Board and may vary from year to year. The College Board does offer a reduced fee for students who qualify.

How is college credit awarded?

College credit and/or "advanced placement" in a course is determined by the score a student receives on an AP examination. AP scores are reported in July to colleges that the student designated prior to examination administration. AP scores range from 1 to 5. Most colleges award credits and/or "advanced placement" to students who score at least a 3.

The individual college determines the AP scores needed to be awarded credit. Some colleges do not award credits for any AP score. Students should contact their colleges of interest to find out their AP policy. For more information, visit www.collegeboard.com/apcreditpolicy

For more information:

For more information about the Advanced Placement Program at Washington High School, contact Ms. Hunter, AP Coordinator. For more information about the Advanced Placement Program, visit www.apcentral.collegeboard.com

• AP Student Letter 2022