Does taking AP/IB affect admission?

Applying to College
1

Hi there,

I going into Grade 11, and am enrolled in all Math and Science subjects in IB. Unfortunately my school starts at 8, and I have to drop my Sister off whose school starts at 8:45. I was considering taking all regular classes which will allow me to spare first block, where my first class will start at 9:15. Will taking regular classes affect my decision at all.

I got nearly perfect scores on my SAT and ACT. I believe I can maintain a 4.0 GPA regardless of course level. My top 3 university choices are U of Toronto, Stanford and ETH Zurich. I will be applying to MIT, UC Berkley, Caltech and Harvard as well. I live in Canada so except for U of A I will be applying as an International student. I will be applying for early decision to my Top 3 Universities, if Possible. (All three and in different countries so I think it’s possible, not sure)

Also, in Grade 12 I will be switching to an AP school that starts at 9. Where I will try to enroll in all, if not, just Math and Science AP courses.

Should I go regular for Grade 11 then switch to Grade 12 AP? Or should I stick with IB Grade 11 due to early decision?

2

My main question is how much will my admission be affected if I take regular in Grade 11 then AP in 12.

3

University of Toronto doesn’t have early action or early decision. Stanford has single choice early action (not early decision).

It’s just a bad idea to change schools between grades 11 and 12. If you have difficulties adjusting, you’re screwed. IB and AP are very different curricula. I recommend just sticking with one school and either IB or AP.

Is there any reason why you can’t drop your sister off before 8 am or why she can’t take public transit or a school bus?

4

Would taking regular classes and maintaining a 4.0 GPA really lower my acceptance chances?

5

Yes, course rigor is very important in admissions.