Latest News for Spring 2023:  AP Review / Preparation Sessions

Advanced Placement (AP) Courses

The Advanced Placement Program, administered by The College Board, allows students to participate in college level courses and possibly earn college credit while still in high school. Secondary schools and colleges cooperate in this program to give students the opportunity to show mastery in college-level courses by taking the AP exam in May of each school year.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the advantages of taking AP courses? 
The main advantage of taking an AP course is advanced preparation for college. Additionally, students who score well on AP exams may receive college credit while still in high school. The AP exams are given every year in May. Scores are reported to the colleges designated by the student and range from 1 (no recommendation) to 5 (extremely qualified). Each college determines the scores to be accepted for credit. Colleges may award three, and sometimes six, hours of credit per test. It is the responsibility of the student to check with the colleges in which they are interested in to see if they accept AP exams for credits.

What is the difference between an Honors and AP class? 
AP classes are college level courses that are more challenging and rigorous. AP classes require energetic, involved, and motivated students. 

Why should I take an AP class? What will it do to my GPA?
Students who succeed in AP courses generally do well in college as a result of rigorous academic preparation. AP classes are weighted on a 5.0 scale. If you do well, your GPA will not be adversely affected. However, it is not advised to take numerous AP courses without serious consideration and teacher recommendations. Doing poorly in an AP course will affect your GPA.

What AP courses/exams does Wakefield High School offer? 

Biology, Calculus AB, Calculus BC, Chemistry, Computer Science A, Computer Science Principles, English Language and Composition, English Literature and Composition, Environmental Science, Government and Politics, Human Geography, Physics 1, Psychology, Statistics, U.S. History, Studio Art Drawing, Studio Art 2-D and Studio Art 3-D. Click here to read detailed AP Course descriptions. 

How much does it cost to take an AP Exam? 
There is no cost to take an AP Exam as long as the student is enrolled in the AP Course in the academic year that the exam is given.  The cost is $94 for students who are enrolled in an AP Course through a Home School Program.

If I take an AP course, do I have to take the exam?
No. We recommend you discuss this with your AP teacher. Furthermore, if you do poorly on the exam, your score will not adversely affect your chances of college admittance (but doing poorly in the course will.)