<p>a couple of points -- I agree, it doesn't make sense to take an AP class without taking the test. And some schools do have requirements to take the test and some put the scores on the transcript -- not all, so check. However, if your school indicated AP xxx on the transcript for the class -- and you received a low score, just don't report it. I can guarantee it won't be a big deal (unless you have 10 AP classes and no scores -- then it would look fishy)</p>
<p>As far as impact on college admissions -- I stand by what I said -- the impact of a particular student's scores is not nearly as important as many other factors. What is important is that you are taking the most rigorous curriculum available -- if your school only offers 2 AP classes, you can only take two. yes, you could self-study, but the only time I have heard an adcom mention self-studying an AP is if you have a desire to really learn that subject and you take the initiative to follow that desire -- self-studying 6 AP's doesn't really look like you are following a passion. It looks like you are trying to do anything possible to get into an IVY.</p>
<p>take a look at the common application (the one used to apply to many, many very selective and super selective schools). This is the instructions for reporting test scores:</p>
<p>"Be sure to note the tests required for each institution to which you are applying. The official scores from the appropriate testing agency must be submitted to each institution as soon as possible. Please self-report your test scores below. If you would also like to self-report your AP or IB scores, please list them in the Academic Honors section."</p>
<p>Clearly the SAT, ACT and SAT II are important tests -- they have a special section where the scores are written and you are required to have an official score sent. you have the option to self-report AP or IB test scores. I think it is pretty clear that these test scores have much less significance on the college application.</p>
<p>Starting next year (2007-2008) all AP classes must have had their curriculum audited by the College Board to have the distinction of AP on the transcript -- this is a way to standardize the level of curriculum. </p>
<p>Two points -- if colleges placed a great deal of importance in AP test scores, they would not allow self-reporting. Do you know any colleges that allow students to self-report GPA's, class rank, SAT scores? </p>
<p>second -- I have read that the average number of AP classes/tests of kids admitted to Stanford, Harvard and Yale is 5. So that means that there are plenty of kids being admitted with less (because we know that some kids have more)</p>
<p>A good link to read -- with pros and cons:
<a href="http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/showthread.php?t=97255%5B/url%5D">http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/showthread.php?t=97255</a></p>
<p>and an article on how many AP classes your really need:</p>
<p>"Trevor Packer, executive director of the AP program, said he had spoken to a number of college officials about how many of the college-level courses were needed to impress admissions officers and prepare for the rigors of higher education. They told him that "three, four or five AP courses are sufficient" in a high school career, he said. Under that scenario, a student could max out with one AP course as a sophomore and two each in junior and senior years. "Beyond that, they are interested in seeing students participate in other activities."</p>
<p><a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/02/06/AR2007020600738.html%5B/url%5D">http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/02/06/AR2007020600738.html</a></p>