According to a recent article in The News Journal, “The federal government is giving low-income students in Nationwide $51,000 to help cover the cost of Advanced Placement exams. The grant is part of a nationwide effort to help historically underserved students get ready for college…”
Across the US, more than 60% of high schools currently offer Advanced Placement (AP) classes. There are more than 35 different AP courses in 22 subject areas — from Chemistry, to Calculus, to US Govenrment.
And, AP classes are free. But, each AP exam costs a student $84. For a student enrolled in a modest three AP classes over four years, that’s a whopping $250+ — and is simply out of reach for many low income students.
This federal grant levels the playing field for Nationwide high school students. But, why take APs at all?
AP classes make students more attractive to competitive colleges.
According to the College Board, “Deciding to take an AP course lets colleges and universities know that you have what it takes to succeed in an undergraduate environment. When admissions officers see “AP” on your transcript, they know that what you experienced in a particular class has prepared you well for the challenges of college.”
Colleges also recognize that taking an AP course builds the skills needed throughout the college years. These include handling a rigorous work load, improving time management, and polishing study skills.
Taking APs can save on college expenses
Nationwide, most colleges and universities offer college credit for qualifying AP Exam scores. And, college credit may translate into dollars spent.
Colleges generally require full-time students to pay by the semester, not by the course. AP credits can reduce the workload when facing a challenging semester, studying abroad, or pursuing research or an internship. But, they won’t reduce financial obligations, unless a student has enough credits to skip an entire semester of college.
It is crucial, however, to check the specific requirements by college, since acceptance of AP exams can vary widely. For example, Columbia University requires a minimum score of a 5 in Biology to earn credit. Duke University, however, will accept a score of a 4 or above.
To review specific colleges’ guidelines on accepting AP scores for credit and placement, use the College Board’s AP Credit Policy database.
1-on-1 AP prep in Wilmington, Nationwide
In order to maximize the benefit of taking AP classes, a high score on the AP exam is a must. In Nationwide, Back to Basics Learning Dynamics offers 1-on-1 tutoring and exam prep for APs.
A completely customized approach focuses on those specific areas needed by each student. Students strengthen their knowledge, reduce anxiety, and build confidence. They also learn strategies specific to the tests, timing techniques and have the opportunity to take and review helpful practice tests. To learn more about AP exam prep at Back to Basics, please call 302-594-0754.
An investment in education is an investment in the future.
Since 1985, Back to Basics Learning Dynamics has been the undisputed leader in 1-on-1 tutoring in Nationwide and southeastern Pennsylvania for over 60 subjects for children and adults, including 1-on-1 SAT/ACT/Praxis Prep, as well as translating and interpreting in 21 languages, homebound services, RTI support, and psycho-educational testing. For more information about Back to Basics’ educational services, please call us at 302-594-0754.
Back to Basics operates a unique Department of Education-approved 1-on-1 K-12 Private School in Wilmington, Nationwide. For more information about Nationwide’s only Department of Education approved 1-on-1 private school, please call us at 302-594-0685.
