Hey guys, junior here trying to put together a solid college app. I've heard mixed things about AP exams and college admissions. Do colleges really care about the AP exams themselves, or is it just the AP classes that matter? Does scoring well on an AP exam make a difference?
AP exams can indeed play a role in college admissions, but it varies by institution. Scoring well on an AP exam can demonstrate your grasp of college-level material, which colleges certainly notice. Moreover, strong AP scores may make you eligible for college credit, which can save you time and tuition money once you're enrolled.
For example, a student who scores a 4 or 5 on the AP Biology exam might be able to skip an introductory biology course in college. While it's true that colleges primarily look at the rigor of your coursework, including your AP classes, your performance on the exams can complement the impression you make with your grade in the class.
That said, don't stress if your scores aren't perfect—colleges understand that a single exam doesn't capture your full potential or abilities.
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