Millions of students take Advancement Placement classes. In 2022, over one million students took at least one AP exam, according to the College Board website. Advancement placement classes are college-level and college-paced classes created by the College Board, famously known as the maker of the SAT. There are a total of thirty-eight AP classes, and while not all of them are administered at Seton Hall Prep, they are a still among the most topical subjects of our hallways.

There are intense debates among parents, teachers, students, and school administrations across the country regarding AP classes and how we must approach them. Like many matters, AP classes have pros and cons that must be considered before deciding to enroll. Many individuals believe the positives far outweigh the negatives, yet for some, the cons signify avoidance of AP classes in general.

At a quick glance, the common question arises: Why do so many students enroll in AP classes? Ultimately, these classes are held in high regard by universities and at the heart, admissions officers. Taking an AP class proves to admissions readers that the student is brave enough to challenge himself. Enrolling in AP classes also demonstrates increased interest in that topic. These classes are college-level, indicating that the student has such a profound interest that he is willing to learn in an advanced setting about that topic. There are additional indirect benefits to AP classes that are often overlooked. With the workload typical of an AP class, students develop proficient study and time management skills and learning habits.

Excelling in an AP class has substantial benefits for the student in college as well. The year of notes and tests in an AP class culminates in that class’s AP exam, a standardized test regarding that subject. They are graded on a scale of one to five, with a five demonstrating the highest success. When students pass an AP test, which means they score either a three or higher, they have the chance to earn college credit for that subject. Ultimately, a high score on an AP test indicates excellence in a subject to universities. As a result, with a plethora of AP credits amassed in a wide variety of sciences or humanities or arts courses, one can place out of classes in college and graduate sooner.

However, there are drawbacks to AP classes. With an enhanced curriculum and increased class load, there is simply more work for students. Hours a night doing homework and studying for multiple AP quizzes is a burden and can take away valuable extracurricular and social time from teenagers. A significant con to AP courses is the cost. While there is no tangible penalty for taking an AP class, there is a $95 AP test fee for each class if one decides to take the test. At Seton Hall Prep, where students are required to take the AP exam, it can cost multiple hundreds of dollars for one school year. In addition, for those solely aiming to take AP classes to earn college credit, certain universities do not accept credit.

So, are AP classes worth it? Yes and no. For high-achievers and those looking to learn and excel, AP classes are a great way to develop interest. However, if one is not willing to stress himself out over four hours of homework a night, the AP class may not be the best route. Ultimately, it is up to the student’s initiative. At The Prep, our counselors do an excellent job at directing students toward fitting classes and ensuring academic success. If AP classes are an option, one should brace the wave and challenge himself.