Is AP really worth it?

nysmile
Sat, 17 Jul 2010 11:43:48 +0000

Here’s is the reality of the situation.

-You say that math/sciences are your weak points and humanities are your strong points
-With humanities as your strong points, you only managed as 3 (on one of the easiest AP tests given) and a 2 on AP tests
-If those exams are in the areas where you show the most strength, than how do you honestly think that AP Physics is going to work out for you?

While focusing on AP Physics, how are you going to find the time to keep up the grades in your other subjects?

Also, I recommend that you ask to see a transcript from your school. In my experience, schools don’t simply add 10 points to the grade of an AP Class. In our district, the actual grade earned in the class is on the transcript. The points for weighting are only expressed in the “Weighted Cumulative GPA” on the transcript (one number). The transcript shows both the unweighted cumulative GPA and the weighted cumulative GPA.

GPA and SAT/ACT scores need to be strong. Also, GPA is relative to the rest of your class.
A GPA of 87 at one school is not the same as a GPA of 87 at another school. If a GPA of 87 puts you in the top 10% of your class, excellent. If a GPA of 87 puts you in the top 50% of your class, it’s not as impressive. Do you see what I mean?

AP classes are wonderful in that they challenge the students that aren’t being challenged in the regular classes. They offer students the ability to get some of the general ed. credits out of the way if the students perform well on the AP exams and if the specific college accepts AP credits for the classes. However, if the AP classes bring down the GPA of the student in question, it could backfire on him when it comes time to apply to colleges.

latichever, it’s great that your son did well on his AP exams. Please don’t assume that this translates into being able to graduate early. If he plans on being a science major, he should not skip the Intro classes in Math or Science by using his AP credits. One of the main benefits of having a good number of AP credits accepted by the college comes into play when registering for classes. The students with more credits under their belt, get to register for classes sooner and choose from a better selection of classes/sections.

Taking AP classes at the expense of a solid GPA may backfire for this OP.

early-college, Do you honestly think you are going to score high enough on the AP Physics test for colleges to give you credit? You scored a 3 on one of the easiest AP test given (many colleges don’t even accept AP Human Geo credits) and a 2 on non-science AP exams (which you say is your strength). At many schools, in order to get credit for AP Physics, one must score a 4 which is difficult for even the best science/math students. Even if you do put in the time to do this, how is it going to effect the rest of your classes?

You obviously feel that you can handle it. However, I would suggest re-evaluating and possibly dropping the course for the sake of your overall GPA.