Hey everyone, I'm aiming high and looking at Ivy League schools. Do you think there's like an 'ideal' number of AP exams I should have under my belt to be a competitive applicant? I've heard all sorts of numbers, but can you ever have too many or too few?
Hi there! As a parent who's been through the process, I understand where you're coming from - it can be pretty confusing! From what I've gathered, Ivy League schools don't specify an 'ideal' number of AP exams, but taking a rigorous course load does show your academic ambition and capability. My child took around 7 AP classes and did well on the exams, which seemed to strike a good balance between showing academic strength and maintaining extracurricular involvement. Remember, it's not just about quantity but also the scores you're getting - aim for 4s and 5s.
Also, consider your own strengths and interests. It's tempting to load up on APs, but take the ones that genuinely interest you and align with your intended field of study. Balance is key – you don't want to overdo it to the point of burnout. And besides, admissions officers will be looking at the whole picture, not just your AP exam count. Best of luck!
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