<p>I'm going to be a junior, I am taking 4 AP classes:</p>
<p>English lit
Physics B
Stats
US history</p>
<p>So I want to self study 1 Ap like calc AB, but if I do that should I just go the
extra 2 towards national AP scholar? Also, could Ap physics c be studied with ap physics b? What other APs could be easy to self study? And does national AP scholar even look that good vs the AP scholar with distinction that I would get if I didn't self study?</p>
<p>I can only tell you that Calc AB is best taught in a classroom setting where you can ask the teacher questions if you get stuck on a problem. It’s hard to apply some concepts to actual problems unless you have a little guidance. It’s also essential to get a good book since the math language in some math books is a little thick. </p>
<p>Also, you need calculus to be able to do Physics C. Physics B is algebra-based, but Physics C is calc-based. You need a working knowledge of integration and differentiation to derive some of the formulas. I don’t know if it’s ever a good idea to self-study a science - especially a lab science that is a core class.</p>
<p>Calculus AB could be self-studied if you’re fluent with pre-calculus and below, but it’s usually recommended to take a calculus course. Also, I suggest not self-studying Physics C since that requires some familiarity with calculus.</p>
<p>The question on whether National AP Scholar is that impressive vs. AP Scholar with Distinction is a little controversial here on CC. I think it’s somewhat impressive, but can easily get outweighed by other activities on others’ applications (e.g. a National AP scholar with nothing else extraordinary can easily get rejected from the top colleges). I wouldn’t strive for National AP scholar if it kills me.</p>