Hello guys, I just saw my AP scores and I am impressed for the following:
AP Calculus AB - 5
AP Chemistry - 5
AP Macro - 5
One thing, however, I am worried about is the amount of exams I have taken so far. Right now, I am a rising senior but I’m doubting myself because I took only 3 exams so far as you can see. Would taking only a few AP exams hurt me? (University of Illinois-UC is my top choice, with an intended physics major)
It really depends. I think you should try to take as many ap as you can especially if it relates to your major like Calculus BC and physics.
In Florida, ap exams are paid by the state so people here take as much ap as they can which sometimes can hurt their scores in certain things.
I would personally take as many mainly because I am good at managing my schedule.
However whatever ap you take, atleast try to take some related to your major.
There is no fixed number of AP to be called good or enough. It is all in the context of your school and your ability. Ask your GC to see if you are considered taking the most rigor courses at your school already. That is all matter. In any case, do not overwhelm yourself with over-rigor curriculum and suffer in GPA.
@ToomanyQuestions18 I will be taking Calc BC and Physics C next year; also my school doesn’t offer that much ap classes (especially but until senior year) and has strict prerequisites.
If your school does not offer that many AP courses, your counselor will indicate that on their form and tell your colleges that you took a highly difficult courseload in the context of the high school.
If you desperately want more AP scores, I would look at AP Human Geo. I took it without taking a single class on the subject and very easy to self study. For sure one of the easiest AP tests.
What exactly does self studying an exam your senior year get you?
Credit in college so that you can save money…?
Not many schools giving credit for HUG. And how many students really graduate in less than 4 years and save money?
The general consensus on CC is that AP scores have minimal effect on admissions. If you took an AP class but didn’t submit the test score that’s one thing, but adcoms as a rule don’t expect you to go out of your way to take a bunch of exams.
Yes it depends on the school as well. But try to take some related to your major. If your state pays for your exams, take as much as you can handle.
I think self studying is a good idea. Stressful but shows your dedicated and want to learn. I honeslty do think you should self study if you want
While it may not affect your college admission process, it will save you money.
" it will save you money."
Nope. AP’s aren’t saving us a dime. They cost plenty though.
self-study APs carries little weight with admissions, imo, especially for AP HUG, already considered a fluffy AP. If you want to impress UIUC for STEM, you should take another AP science along with Physics, but again only if you can handle it.