Advanced Placement (AP) classes are college-level courses offered in high school that prepare students to take tests on college-level knowledge in 38 subjects. The AP program is offered by the College Board and allows students to earn college credit for taking high school classes. Students take the relevant AP test for their subject at the end of the year, and if they receive passing scores on these tests, they can earn college credit. AP courses are recognized by virtually all public and private universities, and successful completion of AP courses and the related tests can greatly help students in the very competitive process of university admission.

Here are some benefits of taking AP classes in high school:

• AP classes can be as challenging as introductory college courses, and they are fast-paced, cover more material than regular classes, and require independent work like research and analysis. Getting a dose of a college-level curriculum early on could ease your transition from high school senior to first-year college student.
• Admissions counselors consistently tell us that good grades and academic rigor are the most important factors when schools evaluate applications. Many high schools give extra weight to AP grades when calculating your GPA. Taking an AP class and getting a B is often a better choice than getting an A in a regular course.
• Taking an AP class is great prep for acing the corresponding AP test. Held every May, AP tests are scored on a scale from 1–5. If your college offers AP credit, a score of a 4 or higher could allow you to earn college credits without paying college tuition. Some students are able to skip the entire first year of college this way, thus cutting the entire cost of their college education by one quarter.
• AP classes can boost your GPA and strengthen your college application. But the number of advanced courses you choose to take should depend on your academic interest and ability.

In summary, AP classes are college-level courses offered in high school that prepare students to take tests on college-level knowledge in 38 subjects. They can help students earn college credit, stand out on college applications, and prepare for college-level work.