What are AP Exams?

Advanced Placement (AP) Exams are rigorous, college-level exams for high school students developed and administered by the College Board, the same organization that runs the SAT. The AP program is designed to give students the opportunity to tackle college-level coursework while still in high school. Each AP course corresponds to an introductory college course in that subject. At the end of the school year, students take a comprehensive exam that assesses their mastery of the material.

The primary purpose of these exams is twofold. First, a strong performance on an AP Exam (typically a score of 3, 4, or 5) can demonstrate to college admissions officers that a student is capable of handling the academic challenges of higher education. Second, and perhaps most tangibly, many colleges and universities grant college credit or advanced placement to students who earn qualifying AP scores. This can save students significant time and money by allowing them to skip introductory-level courses, graduate early, or pursue a double major. In essence, AP Exams serve as a bridge between high school and college, preparing students for academic success and potentially giving them a head start on their undergraduate degree.