AP Tests?Answered
Hi!
I'm a high school senior currently working on applications (wish me luck!). I'm taking 4 AP classes this year (Human Geo, Calc BC, Chem, and Lit), but I'm only planning on taking the exams for Geo and Calc. I'm doing this because I feel like the chem exam is just a way bigger headache than it's worth and I already got a 5 on lang last year, so I don't need to do lit for the credit opportunity. However, I'm a little concerned (rightfully? unrightfully?) that putting on the common app that I'm only planning to take 2 exams out of the 4 classes I'm taking might lead colleges to looking down on that. Is this a valid concern? Should I be taking the exams? I really need advice!!
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2 answers
It is valid for you to be concerned. You provided a valid reason for not taking the other two classes. Honestly, it looks worse if you took the exams and then failed them versus not taking them because you know your limits. Also, in the Common App, there is an Additional Information section where you can explain why you didn't take the other two exams. I'm sure that admission officers will appreciate that instead of overloading yourself, you took the classes you knew you could handle and benefit from.
I've already submitted five applications, so reply if you have additional questions. I'm happy to help! :)
It honestly might be worth it to just take the exams.
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