Why do students take AP tests?
AP tests are a standardized measure of learning and a cumulative assessment of the course. At many colleges and universities a certain score can allow the student college credit or placement into a higher level course.
How do I determine whether or not I should take an AP test?
There are many factors to be considered when deciding whether or not to take a particular AP tests and they differ depending on the grade level of the student.
Seniors - We suggest that students research the AP score requirements for all the schools they have applied/been admitted to for each school independently decides which tests and scores they will allow. Does a school award credit for a certain AP course? If so what score is needed? Some schools will only allow students to submit a score from one AP English AP so much sure to look at that.
Once students have that information they need to look at the AP classes they are enrolled in and think about how much time they have to prepare for the tests. Consider time needed for studying for finals, how strong a student they are in that subject and the cost of the test. Students can select to take only certain tests and not take others.
Juniors- If students have any colleges that they know you are going to apply to, visit the school website to find out which AP tests are accepted and what scores are needed to earn college credit. Students then need to consider how much time they have to study for the exam in addition to other academic responsibilities. Students will also want to factor in whether or not they are taking the SAT in May and how much time is needed to prepare for that as well.
Sophomores- Students will need to consider how much time they have to prepare for the exam in addition to other academic responsibilities.
What does Cardinal Gibbons recommend?
We do encourage students to take the AP exam for the AP courses they are enrolled in for students have already prepared for it through completing the course, it allows students a way to assess their learning in a class, and it may be applicable if a student chooses to transfer colleges for another institution may offer credit or placement options. However we want each student to make an educated decision that is appropriate for their future academic endeavors and for their family.
What will colleges think if I do not take the AP exam?
Not taking the AP exam will not count again a student in the college admission process. Colleges will want to see any AP scores that a student has once they have matriculated in order to determine if credit has been earned or for placement. Scores are not used in making admission decisions.
Who can I reach out to to obtain assistance in making this decision?
We encourage students to talk with their AP teacher(s) to find out from them how they feel the student would fare on the test as well as to determine the best way to prepare for the test. In addition we recommend that students reach out to their counselor to talk through the pros and cons of taking the AP test and to discuss how colleges assess AP test scores.
When and how do I register to take an AP test?
Registration and payment will open September 1st and will close on November 1st. The cost for each test is $97 and is paid at the time of the registration via credit card.
If you decide between November 2nd and March 1st that you would like to take an AP test(s) and have not registered the cost will be $137/test. No late test registrations allowed after March 1st.
Can my student receive testing accommodations on an AP test?
AP tests are governed by the College Board. Only students officially approved for accommodations by the College Board will be granted accommodations on an AP test. This application process can take up to 8 weeks and the deadline to apply for accommodations for any AP test is December. For further information please go to our academic accommodations webpage. Please contact your student's counselor with any questions.