Advanced Placement (AP) is a rigorous academic program built on the commitment, passion, and hard work of students and educators from both secondary schools and higher education. Since 1955, the AP Program has enabled millions of students to take college-level courses and exams and to earn college credit or placement while still in high school.

A 2008 study found that AP students had better four-year graduation rates than those who did not take AP. For example, graduation rates for AP English Literature students were 62 percent higher than graduation rates for those who took other English courses in high school.

Taking AP also increases eligibility for scholarships and makes candidates more attractive to colleges:

• 31 percent of colleges and universities consider a student’s AP experience when making decisions about which students will receive scholarships.
• 85 percent of selective colleges and universities report that a student’s AP experience favorably impacts admissions decisions.
   

A Different Kind of Class
From the moment you enter an AP classroom, you’ll notice the difference—in the teacher’s approach to the subject, in the attitude of your classmates, in the way you start to think. In AP classrooms, the focus is not on memorizing facts and figures. Instead you’ll engage in intense discussions, solve problems collaboratively, and learn to write clearly and persuasively.

Prepare to Succeed in College
AP courses can help you acquire the skills and habits you’ll need to be successful in college. You’ll improve your writing skills, sharpen your problem-solving abilities, and develop time management skills, discipline, and study habits.

 
Earn College Credit and Placement
Most four-year colleges in the United States and colleges in more than 60 other countries give students credit, advanced placement or both on the basis of AP Exam scores. By entering college with AP credits, you’ll have the time to move into upper-level courses, pursue a double-major or study abroad.

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Teachers have changed Kara's life

AP classes at a glimpse

Colleges are Searching for You

Explore AP 

Elgin High School offers the following AP courses:

• AP Art History
• AP Biology
• AP Calculus AB
• AP Calculus BC
• AP Chemistry
• AP Comparative Government
• AP Environmental Science
• AP European History
• AP Human Geography
• AP Language & Composition
• AP Literature & Composition
• AP Macroeconomics
• AP Physics 1
• AP Physics C – Electricity and Magnetism
• AP Physics C - Mechanics
• AP Psychology
• AP Spanish Language & Culture
• AP Spanish Literature & Culture
• AP Statistics
• AP United States Government and Politics
• AP U.S. History
• AP World History