<p>At my kids' school, they are "somewhat" selective but they do allow "non honors" kids to sign up and if the parents complain then anyone is let in. The problem is that some kids are just not willing to do the heavier work level required (there is more homework, more essay writing, more "critical thinking", etc.) and that can interfere with their sports and other ec's. Usually, within the first quarter, 3 - 6 kids drop to the non AP equivalent. The option of being able to move to the non AP course after several weeks is an alternative more schools could offer. </p>
<p>What many don't realize is that AP classes are often more difficult than the actual college classes that they replace.</p>