Picking Your Fall AP Classes 2024

As we get closer to the 2024-2025 school year, many high school students are debating whether they should enroll in Advanced Placement (AP) classes and if so, which ones. This choice can have a big impact on your high school and college careers, so it is important to be strategic about what classes you take and when. Here are the best tips from NSHSS on how to make sure AP classes work for you.

The Importance of AP Classes

Advanced Placement classes are designed to give high school students a taste of college-level coursework, and the extra workload comes with many benefits. Most importantly, scoring well on AP exams can earn you college credits, potentially saving on tuition and allowing you to graduate early.

These courses also play a crucial role in college admissions, as taking AP classes demonstrates to admissions officers that you are willing to challenge yourself academically and are prepared for the demands of higher education. They may see that you have had the chance to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills through rigorous academic challenges.

Choosing Your AP Courses

While it may sound good to take every AP course possible, that isn’t the best route for most students. Instead, you want to choose subjects that you can succeed in and will enjoy. Find subjects that you are passionate about or even may want to study in college so that you are tackling credits that will apply to your major. If you’re wondering, “What AP classes should I take for computer science?” or another subject, you can even reach out to some colleges and see what they would recommend for their program.

It is also important to think about your overall workload during the school year. Some schools have a limit on AP classes, but even if yours doesn’t, stick to a handful of AP options each term to avoid becoming overloaded.

Popular AP Classes for Fall 2024

There are 39 available AP courses, but it’s likely that your school offers a smaller sampling of these classes. While you may see some unique options, there are general subjects that are more likely to be offered and more likely to apply in college settings. Here are some of the most popular options that you can consider.

English AP Courses

AP English Language and Composition: This course focuses on improving writing and analytical skills through the study of non-fiction texts, with a focus on rhetoric and persuasive writing.

AP English Literature and Composition: This course dives into literary analysis, covering a wide range of genres and periods. AP Lit perfect for students who enjoy reading and discussing literature.

History AP Courses

AP U.S. History: Covering the breadth of American history, this course helps students understand significant events, people, and movements in the United States.

AP World History: This course explores global historical themes and developments, beyond just the United States.

Science AP Courses

AP Biology: Offering an in-depth study of biological concepts, this course is essential for aspiring medical or life science professionals.

AP Chemistry: This course provides a rigorous understanding of chemical principles and is ideal for students aiming for careers in chemistry, engineering, or medicine.

AP Physics: Available in several versions (1, 2, C: Mechanics, C: Electricity & Magnetism), AP Physics covers fundamental principles of physics.

Psychology AP Courses

AP Psychology: A popular choice, this course introduces students to the scientific study of behavior and mental processes.

Math AP Courses

AP Calculus AB: This course covers introductory college-level calculus topics, including limits, derivatives, and integrals. It’s suitable for students who have a strong foundation in mathematics already.

AP Calculus BC: More comprehensive than Calculus AB, this course includes additional topics such as sequences and series. It’s recommended for students who excel in math and are considering STEM careers.

AP Statistics: Focused on data collection, analysis, and interpretation, this course is ideal for students interested in fields like social sciences, business, and biology.

Computer Science AP Courses

AP Computer Science Principles: This course introduces foundational concepts of computer science and explores computing's impact on society. It’s an excellent starting point for students new to the field.

AP Computer Science A: This course is more advanced and suited for students who want to delve deeper into coding and software development. It focuses on programming and problem-solving using Java.

Planning for AP Classes

AP classes are designed to challenge high school students in preparation for college, so you can expect them to feel more rigorous than what you are used to in high school. To help you prepare, follow these tips:

• Schedule Planning: Mix challenging AP classes with subjects you are confident in and electives or more relaxed courses. This can help you avoid burnout and let you give AP courses the proper amount of attention.

• Summer Preparation: Use the summer break to review prerequisite materials or get a head start on the coursework. Most AP teachers will give you information in advance.

• Study Groups: Join or form study groups with classmates to reinforce learning and provide mutual support.

What AP Classes Should I Take?

Taking AP classes can open many doors for your academic and professional future. By challenging yourself with college-level coursework in high school, you not only prepare for the world of higher education but also demonstrate to college admissions officers your dedication and capability. Thoughtfully selecting your AP classes and planning your schedule will set you up for success.

There is no “right” set of AP classes to choose. Instead, any subject that you can succeed in and feel passionate about will be a good fit, especially if it can be applied to your future college requirements.

 If you are unsure about what classes to take, reach out to your current teachers and any academic mentors you may have, like those in the NSHSS leadership program. Whether you have a simple question like “What math class should I take?”  or want to discuss college major options, these opportunities will be invaluable as you begin the next step in your education.