<p>I don’t know anything about the admissions standards for UC engineering schools, but I am curious as to why you assume the student would not be able to get an A in an Honors or AP class? Obviously, that would be the best scenario if it were possible, and thus, the preferable way to go. </p>
<p>It can also be a major pitfall going into a lower level class assuming an easy A only to find out that such a result is less than automatic. You might also be selling short the benefits of taking the higher level class. For example, the higher level classes in many schools are taught by the most competent and experienced teachers, which, in some ways, actually makes the class easier despite being more advanced. Conversely, If your kid gets stuck with an incompetent or inexperienced teacher in a lower level class there could be all sorts of downsides to that scenario you aren’t anticipating. You have to be very careful with your assumptions. The quality of the person teaching my be far more meaningful than the level at which the class is being taught. </p>
<p>Generally speaking, colleges say they want to see a student take the most rigorous level they can handle. And that’s true up to a point. For example, I don’t think there is much of an admissions penalty if a student gets a B in an AP class in lieu of an A in a regular level class. AdComs generally accept the difference in rigor in that type of situation. Thus, I’d go with the AP class and try to get an A, but be able to live with a B if it goes that way. Plus, if it’s weighted, the B won’t hurt the GPA. However, there is almost no extension of grace if the AP grade falls to a C. So if that’s in anyway likely, it would be best to go with something else where a higher grade can be earned. </p>
<p>That’s the thought process we took and it worked out very well. However, I’m going to qualify it by saying the above is just my two cents. Your situation might be a little different given the nature of your specific objectives and school system. Some added due dilligence might be in order for you to make the most informed decision.</p>