I am only a Freshman, and I just took the AP Computer Science class (And got an A), but got really nervous and did bad on the AP Test (I am not looking forward to the inevitable 4). Since I want to major in Computer Science at a top school, how hindered are my chances?
If you took APCS as a Freshman and the worst you’re expecting is a 4 than you’re in better shape than the vast majority of CS majors. It will have absolutely no negative impact on your college admission results.
Thanks, but is this true even if I’m applying to Ivy Leagues?
Your A will matter more than your AP score. AP scores are not given much weight when it comes to college admissions, they are generally only used for credit, even for Ivy League schools.
Thanks a lot, this makes me feel better!
First off, for pure CS the Ivies aren’t the best. Secondly, AP scores play an extremely tiny role in admissions.
Got a 5 nvm guys
Good job! Now focus on acing (with A’s and 5’s) the rest of the CS-related APs (Calculus BC, Physics C, Chemistry) and SAT subject tests and you’ll be in great shape.
If you are really interested in computer science you should spend time learning more. Look at MIT’s open courseware, get familiar with Linux, learn SQL, see if you can do some job shadowing or learn enough to be useful to someone. (And yes, don’t skimp on Math, Chem and Physics.)
Of course, for admission to the most highly selective schools (or computer science majors at schools that admit by major), you need to do well in the rest of your courses (English, history and social studies, foreign language, art) as well as math and science.
Thanks. By the way, Golden Bears happen to be the symbol of my high school. Did you happen to go to HS in suburban Ohio?