<p>I was thinking of doing independent study for a couple of AP classes next year since they aren't offered at my school. I talked to my counselor about it, though, and she said it was impossible for me to get credit for it unless I take the classes online. The thing is, if I did that, I'd have to pay for the classes myself and have to deal with the problem of an old (and unreliable) computer.</p>
<p>I live in what is considered a poor district and frankly, I just can't afford to do that kind of thing. I can probably afford textbooks and review materials but I can't pay for classes worth twice as much as those materials.</p>
<p>Is this fair? I really want to do the independent studies regardless of whether I get HS credit or not. I guess what I'm trying to find out is whether colleges will even know that I did them and what kind of proof I could show. Will sending my score reports be enough or will I have to have it in my transcript for them to even give me consideration?</p>
<p>i think sending your score reports will be enough. i also think that doing an independent study course shows the college and getting a 4 or 5 stands out more</p>
<p>I didn't ask, but I'm positive that my school wouldn't give me credit either. It seems fairly reasonable, but I can understand where you're coming from. Score reports with the AP score on them would let the colleges know that you self-studied, because the class wouldn't be on your transcript--what other conclusion could they come to?</p>
<p>My school lets us do AP's as independent studys that go on our transcript. Maybe you should try talking to someone with more authority than a guidance counselor. Like the principal. Also, if you personally can't get them to do it, why not try having your parents call. Your parents can remind the principal/guidance counselor who pays their salaries.</p>
<p>No, you won't get high school credit, but if you score well on the APs you will get college credit, which will mean fewer college courses to take (that can save a ton in tuition fees). Some people get enough credits from AP tests that they essentially go in as sophomores to college!!! So if yuo can find the time, do what's manageable. At UMCP an AP score of 3 earns 3 credits, and a 4 or 5 earns 6 credits.</p>
<p>But if I'm doing the independent study on my senior year, how should I let the colleges I'm applying to know that I'm doing those. I'm sure it'll look good for adcoms to see that you're doing such things but if I don't get the score reports in July, do I just write it on my application or something?</p>
Yes, that's why you fill out an application. You may want to mention your independent study as part of one of your essays on your application form.</p>