Advanced Placement (AP) offers more than 30 college-level courses in subjects such as English, history, humanities, languages, math, psychology and science. Students can take the AP courses that are offered in their high school. A college-level exam given at the end of the year tests the students' knowledge of the AP subject. Exam scores can then be submitted to colleges and universities for college credit.
AP courses are a good deal because:
You must be a high school student in order to participate. Your high school may require a certain academic standing or GPA before you are allowed to participate. Conact with your counselor's office or school district to see if you are eligible. Check the Dual Credit Comparison Chart for more information.
You must take a exam which is graded on a five-point scale. College faculty from around the country are selected to grade your exam.
If you are interested in a specific college, be sure to ask the admissions office about their AP credit policy. Many colleges and universities in Minnesota award credit for scores of 3 or higher depending on the AP subject. Some colleges and universities require scores of at least 4. To see the scores required by each college, see the embedded Tableau table here.
If you are interested in a specific college, be sure to ask admissions about their AP acceptance policy. Almost all colleges and universities in Minnesota will award credit for passing AP exams, but what each institution considers "passing" can vary.
Not all colleges accept all AP subject exams, and there are instances where credit acceptance varies depending on the subject.
To see the scores required to earn college credit by institution, see the embedded Tableau table here.
It is free for students to enroll in an AP class, however college credit can only be earned by receiving a passing score (as determined by the college) on a fee-based AP exam. AP exams are free for qualified Minnesota students who demonstrate financial need; all other students pay $44-53 per exam.
AP classes are taught by a high school teacher.
The class is held at your high school just like the rest of your classes. Not all high schools offer AP courses. Check if your high school offers AP courses.
For more information on AP courses, contact your school counselor or visit College Board, the nationwide administrator of AP courses.