What if My High School Doesn't Offer AP Classes?

Taking advanced placement (AP) classes can have big advantages. AP classes demonstrate to schools that you're a hard worker and high academic achiever. They're also helpful by preparing you for college-level coursework. Even more importantly, passing an AP exam can give you college credit, allowing you to graduate faster with less debt.

If your high school doesn't offer an AP program, you may feel like you're missing out on the big advantages these classes provide. But you still have options, as your school doesn't need to offer AP classes for you to still take advantage of the opportunity.

If you're a strong student and confident you can succeed, talk to your counselor about taking an AP class online through an approved provider! There are a few things to determine before enrolling:

• Will you be comfortable taking an online course, especially if you've never completed one before?
• Do you need a recommendation from a teacher or counselor before enrolling, or do you need to take a test to qualify for the class?
• Can your counselor enroll you, or is it something you need to do on your own?
• Will your school offer credit for the class, or will it need to be completed on your own time?
• If you need to take the class during your free time, will you have the motivation to complete the necessary work?
• Are the AP classes you're interested in available through the provider your counselor provided?

It may take some determination, but you should be able to participate in AP classes even if they aren't offered at your high school. And if you do well, you can earn college credit or even scholarships!