AP Overview and Important Dates

Get more information about the AP Program.

The Advanced Placement Program® (AP) is an academic program that gives students an opportunity to do college-level coursework while still in high school. There are 38 AP courses available in a wide range of subjects. AP Exams are given each year in May.

Here are some reasons for students to take AP courses and exams:

  • College admission officers look for challenging courses—such as AP classes—on applications.
  • Many colleges grant credit, placement in advanced college classes, or both for qualifying scores on AP Exams.
  • AP courses give students a chance to build the academic skills they need in college.
  • AP courses engage and challenge students and let them see what college courses will be like.

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