<p>Will it "look good" to have self-studied (without the class) AP scores of 4-5 on my college resume?</p>
<p>I heard that AP tests only provide college credit and nothing more, while the classes demonstrate a desire to take a challenge. However, wouldn't self-study AP also prove to admission officers a sense of academic independence and moreover, achievement?</p>
<p>I would love input on this topic.</p>
<p>Also, would it be better to allocate time and effort on self-studying AP courses or SAT Subject Tests? What should one prioritize in this instance?</p>
<p>AP scores are self reported for a reason- they don’t carry much weight. Self studying a decent number of exams (3+) could have be of some small worth, but still not much. Depends on the subject too. Don’t fool yourself into thinking AP exams are more difficult and prestigious than they really are.</p>
<p>If you’re self-studying to look good on college apps, you’re doing it wrong. If you’re self-studying because you like the course or want to get college credit, then you’re doing it right.</p>
<p>It’s not like “Okay, spend an hour studying for AP, and spend an hour studying for subject test.” They’re one in the same. Just study the topic, which most do through AP. For most subjects, content covered by AP is very similar to that covered by subject tests. If you cover all the AP material, you should be more than prepared for the subject test, though it can’t hurt to get a review book and make sure you’ve covered it all. Also keep in mind that AP tests have a set date. You can take the subject tests whenever you are ready.</p>
<p>If you’re truly interested in the subject and want to earn college credit, go for it! If you’re hoping to impress adcoms and increase your chances of admission, just realize that AP scores are not considered heavily. You could dedicate the time spent self-studying for more enriching pursuits.</p>