<p>No, it's not required at all. I know someone who took the easiest literature class offered and was accepted. If you want to add more turbulence to the mix, no APUSH either. I believe that straight As with a mix of regular, honors, and AP (sparingly) courses is better than rushing head first into many APs and getting multiple Bs. That's the observation that I have made. Of course, straight As with all APs is better, but most will come out with a B.</p>
<p>Yes, I know it goes against what admissions officers have been saying, but as long as the schedule is 20% regular, 50% honors, 30% AP, I don't see what's wrong with it.</p>