How Can AP Exams Set You Apart?: Dean's Desk

Advanced Placement (AP) exams are rigorous tests that allow high school students to demonstrate their mastery of college-level material in a specific subject area. Students who take and do well on AP exams may be able to earn college credit or place out of introductory college courses. However, taking AP exams requires a significant amount of time, effort, and preparation.

One way that AP exams can set you apart in college admissions is by demonstrating your academic ability. AP courses and exams are designed to be more rigorous than typical high school courses, and they require students to engage with complex material and think critically. By taking and doing well on AP exams, you can demonstrate that you are capable of handling college-level material and have the academic skills needed to succeed in college.

AP exams not only help you demonstrate your academic ability but also your interest and commitment to a particular subject area. Many students take AP exams in subjects they are passionate about or plan to study in college. By doing so, they can show college admissions officers that they have a deep interest in the subject and are committed to pursuing it at a higher level.

Taking AP exams can also help you stand out in the college admissions process by giving you an edge in the competition for admission. Many colleges and universities use AP exams as a factor in their admissions decisions. They may look favorably at students who have taken and done well on AP exams, especially if the exams are in subjects related to their intended major or field of study.

Another way that AP exams can set you apart in college admissions is by allowing you to earn college credit or advanced placement. Many colleges and universities offer credit or advanced placement for high scores on AP exams, which can save you time and money in college by allowing you to skip introductory courses and move directly into more advanced coursework. This can make you a more competitive applicant and demonstrate that you are capable of handling college-level material.

However, it's important to note that simply taking AP exams is not enough to set you apart in the college admissions process. To truly stand out, you need to do well on the exams and demonstrate your knowledge and skills in the subject area. This requires significant preparation and study, and students should be willing to put in the time and effort needed to do well on AP exams.

So, how can you maximize the impact of AP exams on your college admissions process? Here are some tips:

• Take AP exams in subjects related to your intended major or field of study: This will demonstrate your interest and commitment to the subject and show college admissions officers that you are prepared for college-level coursework in that area.

• Study and prepare thoroughly for AP exams: This requires consistent practice and review, so make sure to set aside time each day or week to study. You can also use resources like study guides, practice exams, and tutoring services to help you prepare.

• Aim to score well on AP exams: While simply taking AP exams can be impressive, scoring well on them can set you apart even further. Colleges and universities may look more favorably on students who have scored a 4 or 5 on an AP exam than on those who have scored a 3 or lower.

• Use AP exams strategically in your college application: You can highlight your AP exam scores in your college application by including them in your resume or listing them under the relevant subject area. You can also mention them in your college essay or in your interviews with admissions officers.

AP exams can set you apart in the college admissions process by demonstrating your academic ability, interest and commitment to a particular subject area, and readiness for college-level coursework. To maximize the impact of AP exams on your college admissions process, you should take them in subjects related to your intended major, study and prepare thoroughly.

“AP students are intellectually curious, disciplined, and incredibly resilient. You are the type of people who will follow through on things you’ve started.”

Minh-Ha Hoang, Director of Admissions and Enrollment, University of San Diego

Sources

“Should I Commit to Taking AP Exams?” College Board Blog. College Board , 19 May 2022. Web. 17 May 2023.

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