How to Pick AP Courses

Taking AP courses helps you on your path to college by giving you a chance to:

• Earn college credit, advanced placement, or both. More colleges than ever before accept AP Exam scores for credit, saving you time and money.
• Stand out to colleges and scholarship organizations. Taking AP courses and exams shows that you’re serious about your education and willing to challenge yourself.
• Get a GPA boost. Most high schools offer a boost to students that take AP. Check with your school counselor for more information.

There are 39 AP courses, but each high school chooses which courses to offer. So how do you pick the AP courses that are right for you? Here are a few steps you can take and then a quiz to help you decide.

1. Do you have a future career goal? 

• Do: Think about a career path you are interested in. Check out this blog post and use this tool to find AP courses that align with this path. 

2. If yes, what college majors are you considering reaching this goal? 

• Connect:  Start a college list with colleges that offer those majors and research the college credit policies. Note which AP scores they accept for credit or advanced placement. How might earning these credits benefit your college journey?  

3. What subjects align with those majors? 

• Do: Think about a college major or career path you are interested in. Are these subjects you enjoy? Check out this article and use this tool to find AP courses that align with this path.

4. Do you feel confident that you’ll succeed in those subjects? (Hint: Check your AP Potential) 

• Connect: Start a college list and research the college credit policies of at least two colleges. Note which AP scores they accept for credit or advanced placement. How might earning these credits benefit your college journey? 

5. Does your school offer those AP courses? 

• Do: Schedule a meeting with your school counselor to talk about enrolling in AP courses. Discuss what courses are available for you to take. Make sure to check if your any of your chosen AP courses have requirements or prerequisites. You can get ideas from this conversation starter.