<p>I've been hearing alot that competitive students for really selective schools (Ivies, Stanford, UChicago...) must've taken the hardest courseload possible at their schools. My problem is that I'm an international applicant from a school that doesn't offer any AP or Honors courses. So, I've been self-studying for AP exams (got 5 in APUSH and APEnglish Lang and studying for AP Microecon and APEnglish Lit). Will colleges see this as challenging yourself and taking the hardest courseload available? Please add any suggestions as to how I could show them that I'm challenging myself academically.</p>
<p>I’m a junior by the way!</p>
<p>Bump!!! Any input will be greatly appreciated!</p>
<p>Even though your not taking the class, your 5’s show that your skilled in that subject and thats good. You seem like a humanities person so UChicago seems like a good fit.</p>
<p>Yes, self-studying and getting a 5 is always a sign of high independence and challenging yourself to the max.</p>
<p>But does it look as good as the other students with AP courses that take 7-10 AP exams? Do you guys have any suggestions as to how I can show my abilities without AP or honors classes?</p>
<p>Most kids in the US dont even take more than one AP. Some up to 3 and very few up to 7-10. Honestly beyond 5-6, its really stressing for most. Your fine because its quality that counts and not quantity. Even if a kid takes 7 and makes only 3’s on them, its not that great. Your fine.</p>
<p>I’m one of those insane students who will have taken 10+ APs before leaving high school haha.</p>
<p>Considering that your APs will be self-studied and that your school doesn’t offer them (or IBs, I’m presuming), the top-tier schools should see it as a mark of determination. It takes guts to take a test after studying for it without the aid of a teacher.</p>