Is it better to take more AP classes or have a higher GPA?

Hi collegevine! Junior here, and I'm trying to plan out my senior year schedule. I'm not sure if I should take more AP classes to challenge myself, even if it means my GPA might drop a bit, or if I should prioritize maintaining a high GPA. What do colleges care more about? Thanks for your help!

Hello! It's great that you're taking the initiative to plan your senior year carefully. When it comes to college admissions, both your GPA and the rigor of your coursework are important. Colleges look at both aspects to get a better understanding of your overall academic performance and potential. However, they may weigh these factors differently depending on their specific criteria and priorities.

Taking challenging courses, such as AP classes, demonstrates that you're willing to push yourself academically and can handle college-level coursework. On the other hand, maintaining a high GPA shows that you've consistently performed well in your classes. Ideally, you would want to strike a balance between taking challenging courses and maintaining a high GPA.

One way to approach this is to consider your strengths and interests. If you're passionate and confident about a subject, taking an AP course in that area may not have a significant impact on your GPA. However, if you're unsure about a certain subject or feel you might struggle, it might be better to focus on maintaining a high GPA in a less challenging course.

Ultimately, the decision is yours and should be based on your individual priorities, academic strengths, and college aspirations. Best of luck in your senior year!