How is self studying APs viewed?

Test Preparation AP Test Preparation
1

<p>In general, how is self studying an AP and then getting a four or a five on the AP test viewed by colleges? I've read that it's not viewed very highly because you didn't actually take the class. </p>

<p>Not many APs are offered at my school, but I want to self study to take tests for college credit and show motivation. </p>

<p>I understand that colleges take into consideration of course rigor, and I am taking the most rigorous classes available to me, but like I said earlier, I want more credit entering college. </p>

<p>Will selective colleges in general even grant credit for a score of four or five on the AP test if you didn't take the class?</p>

2

<p>Credit policies generally depend only on the exam. As for admissions, yes taking the course is better than the exam only, but if the course is not offered/you couldn’t take it for some reason, taking the exam still looks good (better than not taking anything), although it’s not a very big thing.</p>