Passing an AP Exam Helps You Save Big on College Costs

Some high school students like to make fun of AP students, accusing them of being nerds, or having no social skills. But rest assured, those AP students will be the supervisors of many of those others out in the real world. When you take AP classes in high school, you will be challenged academically, but the payoff is terrific. You'll save on college costs, and can earn your degree much faster.

Develop Academic Strengths and Be Rewarded for It

If you have a passion for World History or a real talent for mathematics, you can use AP classes to develop these academic strengths, and if you pass the AP exam, you can earn college credit for it. Speak with your guidance counselor about your college plans and find out what AP courses are offered at your school.

AP Credit Carries Beyond the United States

Advanced Placement credits aren't just for schools within the United States. They are recognized by schools in more than 60 other countries. Going to college in another country is a challenging and exciting way to earn an education. Earning AP credit can help reduce your course load at a foreign university, so you can make the most of your time there.

Determine Your Preferred College's AP Policy

Each college and university (or university system) has its own AP policy. If you know which college you want to attend, find out what their AP policy is so you can tailor your high school AP course work to it. But even if you're unsure which school you want to attend, passing AP classes is an achievement, and many colleges and universities accept Advanced Placement credits.

You May Have Access to AP Classes Your High School Does Not Offer

Your high school may not offer the AP classes you want to take. Speak with your guidance counselor about other options. Some AP classes can be taken online, and some schools allow you to take AP classes elsewhere. If you have real academic aptitude, you owe it to yourself to find out what AP has to offer.