Should My Teen Take AP Classes? What Every Parent Should Know
Advanced Placement (AP) classes can be a powerful tool for motivated high school students to challenge themselves academically and stand out on college applications. But they can also be a source of unnecessary stress if chosen without the right context and support. If you’re wondering whether your teen should take AP courses, here are some key things to consider:
1. What Are AP Classes?
AP courses are college-level classes offered in high school across a range of subjects: math, science, history, English, and more. At the end of the school year, students take an AP exam; scoring high (typically a 3, 4, or 5) may earn them college credit or advanced placement in college courses.
2. What Are the Benefits?
College Admissions: AP classes show admissions officers that a student is willing to take on rigorous coursework.
College Credit: Depending on the college, AP exam scores can save students time and tuition by fulfilling course requirements.
Academic Growth: AP classes often involve deeper critical thinking, writing, and problem-solving.
3. Is Your Student Ready?
Not every student benefits from every AP class. Key questions to ask:
Is your teen genuinely interested in the subject?
Can they manage the workload alongside their other commitments?
Have they done well in prerequisite or related courses?
AP success is not just about being smart—it’s about being prepared, motivated, and supported.
4. Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Taking Too Many: Overloading on APs can lead to burnout and declining grades.
Choosing for Prestige: Students should pick APs based on interest and strengths, not pressure or peer comparison.
Skipping the Exam: Taking the AP exam is essential if your student wants to earn college credit.
5. What Colleges Actually Want
Selective colleges often prefer students who take challenging courses and perform well in them. An A or B in an AP class is often more impressive than an A in a standard class—but only if the student is thriving, not drowning.
6. How to Support Your Teen
Help them plan a balanced schedule
Encourage strong study habits and time management
Consider tutoring or academic support if needed
Make sure they understand the commitment before enrolling
7. Most Challenging and Most Impactful AP Courses
Not all AP classes are created equal—some are notoriously more difficult, while others carry more weight in the eyes of college admissions officers.
Most Challenging AP Courses (based on content, workload, and national pass rates):
AP Physics C (Mechanics/Electricity & Magnetism) – Requires a strong foundation in math and is calculus-based
AP Chemistry – Heavy lab work, complex problem solving, and memorization
AP Calculus BC – Fast-paced and covers more material than AB; college-level calculus
AP Biology – Deep content knowledge and critical thinking required for labs and FRQs
AP U.S. History – High reading and writing demand, with emphasis on argumentation
Most Impactful AP Courses for College Admissions:
Selective colleges often look most favorably on AP courses in core academic subjects—especially when aligned with a student’s intended college major:
STEM Majors: AP Calculus BC, AP Physics, AP Chemistry, AP Biology
Humanities Majors: AP English Literature, AP U.S. History, AP World History
Social Sciences: AP Psychology, AP U.S. Government & Politics, AP Economics
Ultimately, impact depends on context. A student pursuing engineering who takes and excels in AP Physics and Calculus will stand out more than one who loads up on unrelated APs.
Final Thoughts
AP classes can be a fantastic opportunity—but they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution. The best decision takes into account your student’s goals, capabilities, and overall well-being.
If your teen is considering AP courses next year, now is a great time to plan ahead and line up the right support. At Tutors & Friends, we’re always happy to help students prepare, stay confident, and succeed in their AP journey.
