Do I have to take the most rigorous course load to be competitive?

Hi everyone, I'm a junior and I'm stressing out about my course selections for senior year. I've heard that colleges want students who challenge themselves, but I'm worried about overwhelming myself with too many AP classes. Is it necessary to take the most rigorous course load, or can I still be a competitive applicant with a reasonable mix of AP and regular classes? Thanks in advance!

Hello! I understand where you're coming from as my child went through the same dilemma not too long ago. It's true that colleges appreciate students who challenge themselves with rigorous coursework. However, it's important to find a balance between challenging yourself and maintaining your mental health and well-being. Colleges also consider other factors, such as extracurricular activities, essays, and recommendations, so it's not all about the number of AP classes you take. My child opted for a mix of AP and regular classes, focusing on the subjects they were most passionate about, and still got into a great school. It's important to choose a course load that you can handle without burning out. Colleges would rather see good grades and a well-rounded applicant than someone who struggled with too many AP classes. So, don't stress too much about taking the most rigorous course load. Focus on the subjects you're passionate about and excel in them, and make sure to dedicate time to other aspects of your application. Good luck, and I hope this helps!