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Academics » Advanced Placement Program

Advanced Placement Program

The Advanced Placement (AP) Program offers students the opportunity to take rigorous, college-level courses while still in high school. Developed by the College Board, AP courses are designed to challenge students academically, strengthen critical thinking skills, and prepare them for the expectations of college coursework. At St. Michael's High School, AP courses provide motivated students with the opportunity to engage deeply in their studies while building the confidence and skills needed for success beyond high school.

What is Advanced Placement?

Advanced Placement (AP) is a nationally recognized program administered by the College Board that offers college-level courses in high school. Each AP course follows a curriculum designed by college faculty and experienced educators to provide students with an academically rigorous learning experience.

Students enrolled in AP courses have the option to take the corresponding AP Exam in May. Depending on the exam score earned and the policies of the college or university they attend, students may receive college credit, advanced placement, or both.

Benefits of Taking AP Courses

  • College Preparation

AP courses expose students to the pace, expectations, and rigor of college-level academics while they are still supported by their high school teachers. Students develop the study habits, writing skills, and analytical thinking necessary for success in higher education.

  • Strengthen College Applications

Colleges and universities recognize AP coursework as evidence that a student has challenged themselves academically. Taking rigorous courses demonstrates intellectual curiosity, motivation, and a willingness to pursue academic excellence.

  • Opportunity to Earn College Credit

Students who choose to take an AP Exam may earn college credit or advanced placement at many colleges and universities. Credit policies vary by institution, so students are encouraged to review the AP credit policies of the colleges they are considering.

  • Develop Lifelong Skills

Beyond preparing students for college, AP courses foster critical thinking, problem-solving, effective communication, time management, and resilience—skills that benefit students throughout college, careers, and life.

Current AP Course Offerings

St. Michael's High School currently offers the following Advanced Placement courses:

  • AP World History
  • AP U.S. History
  • AP English Language and Composition
  • AP English Literature and Composition
  • AP Calculus AB
 

AP Exam Information

AP Exams are administered each May and are scored on a scale of 1–5.

At St. Michael's High School, students enrolled in AP courses are strongly encouraged to take the corresponding AP Exam to demonstrate their mastery of college-level material and potentially earn college credit. However, taking the AP Exam is not required.

Students who plan to take an AP Exam must register through their College Board account and enter their corresponding AP Classroom by the published registration deadline and submit the required exam fee. Additional information regarding registration, payment, and testing dates will be communicated to students and families each fall.

AP Exam Registration & Deadlines

Registration for AP Exams typically takes place during the fall semester.

Students and parents will receive information regarding:

  • Registration deadlines
  • Exam fees and payment procedures
  • Late registration policies
  • College Board account setup
  • Exam day expectations

Students who miss the registration deadline may be subject to late fees or may not be able to order an exam.

College Board Resources

Students and families can learn more about the AP Program through the College Board, including:

  • Course descriptions
  • AP Classroom resources
  • AP Exam schedules
  • College credit policies
  • Score reporting

Visit https://apstudents.collegeboard.org/ for additional information.

Questions?

For questions regarding Advanced Placement courses, AP Exam registration, testing accommodations, or general AP information, please contact: [email protected]