30 Oct Take AP Classes and Save Money on College

Taking AP (advanced placement) courses in high school can save you money in college. Yes, really. AP courses aren’t for every student; they’re more difficult than a general high school course and sometimes have academic standards which need to be met before a student can enroll in one. However, if you’re ready for a challenge and are motivated as a student, earning a top grade in an AP class in high school can pay dividends down the road. 

Make Your Application Stand Out

In 2017, there were more than 10 million college applications in the United States. Every day admissions officers are trying to find the best applicant for their school. Help yourself stand out by taking AP classes and doing really well in them. And if you’re decided on a major, try to excel in AP courses which are relevant to that major. 

Earn Merit Based Aid

There are scholarships and grants available to students who excel academically in high school. Merit based aid can help lower the overall cost of tuition and may be available on a yearly basis if a student keeps up their academic success in college. 

Challenge Yourself Academically

AP courses are harder than regular high school classes. Students will be challenged, invest more time in their studies, and develop critical thinking skills which can be used to help prepare them for college studies. 

Earn College Credit and Save Money

After succeeding in an AP class, high school students have the option to take AP exams. If a students receives a 4 or 5 on the exam, they may be awarded college credits. The more AP classes a student takes, the more AP exams they pass, and the more college credits they earn before even enrolling in a school results in a lower tuition bill; and perhaps the opportunity to graduate early. 

Open the Door to More Options with College Course Selection

If a student earns college credit for AP classes in high school that opens the door for a student to select electives and core major courses they normally may not have the option to study. The opportunity to broaden one’s academic horizons is a good thing. 

Questions about AP classes? Ready to start planning for college? Curious about how merit based aid relates to Expected Family Contribution? Make an appointment to meet with one of Accolade Financial’s experts today.