Why You Should Bother Taking AP Tests

We all know the College Board is after our money. I mean, seriously, it costs 45 dollars to take a standardized test that all colleges need in order to consider you for admission, and 89 dollars for an AP test...but considering the rising tuition costs just about everywhere, if you get credit for your AP test, it might be a good deal.

But if you were accepted to a school that doesn't accept AP credits, what will you do? Is there a point for you to take the AP test?

There really is no right answer. If you're a senior that's already been admitted to Stanford, Yale, or the like, you might be a little lazy when it comes time to sign up for AP, and think: "Oh, but they won't accept my credits...no point in taking the test." But colleges like Stanford and Yale like seeing you challenge yourself. They believe that challenging yourself by taking AP exams demonstrates your rigor and focus. Take AP exams anyway. It's the last time you'll ever have a chance at getting cheap credit hours...and besides, even if you are lazy, it will feel good when your scores come back and you get that 5 on AP Chemistry or AP Government. You will actually feel somewhat accomplished even if you slacked off your second semester...

If you are not a senior, please do take AP tests, because it will help you get into college, even if it might not guarantee you credit. They are really worth it, because the worst thing you can do is take an AP-labeled class and not take the AP test, because colleges expect you to have a score when they look at your transcript and see that you have taken AP Chemistry. It also demonstrates your dedication to the highest level of challenge and rigor because AP exams and classes are considered to be college-level by universities. It's a good thing.

And for those that don't want to take an AP exam, nobody can force you into taking it. That statement has the backing of the counseling department at Desert Vista. Nobody can threaten to fail you if you refuse to take an AP Exam.

So happy AP exams, and remember, the last day to sign up is next Friday, February 13! You can also pay for exams using tax credit money...