<p>After helping my son select his courses for Jr/Sr year, I just saw a startling statement on the UT website:
“Because not all applicants have access to advanced or honors courses, we do not, however, consider the level of coursework taken (regular, advanced placement, honors, AP, IB or other) during the admissions process.”</p>
<p>I’ve also read on this site that many valedictorians are turned down. He’s currently #5 in his class and will probably move up to #2 or 3. He can’t beat out the #1 guy whose mom planned ahead in 6th grade and didn’t allow for ANY on-level classes:) ! </p>
<p>Question is: If he is seriously only interested in UT BHP, should he focus more on rank/SAT and not take so many AP classes? He’s never made a B (in his life) but anything could happen. I thought AP classes were a big factor in college admissions, but apparently not at UT? But then again, if he changes his mind, he might be screwed if he doesn’t have AP classes and applies to a college that’s freaked out over stuff like that (e.g. Rice).</p>
<p>Any suggestions on UT BHP admissions would really be helpful. We’re building a house on Lake Travis and can’t wait to get to Austin the second he receives his high school diploma! So I’ll possibly get to see him (and a boatload of his friends) on the weekends.</p>
<p>P.S. Funny story (or really, not so funny): I called his counselors office this morning to discuss courses that would help improve his class ranking and she said, “Looks like you already have everything under control unless you just want to teach him yourself and then he can be #1 in YOUR class.” How ruuuudddeeee!!!</p>