How important are APs and Honors classes in college admissions?
Short answer: It depends. Long answer: Just like everything in the world of college admissions, answers vary based on the schools that you are applying to. In general, most schools will tell you that the strength of your schedule is an important factor in the admissions process. Just HOW important can vary based on selectivity or individual school. Typically, selective institutions are looking first at your preparation and performance in high school. Admissions committees want to see that – given the opportunity to take challenging coursework – you are up for the challenge! Honors, AP, IB, and advanced level courses show a school that you are that much closer to college-level work. Of course, every high school offers a different curriculum – and colleges take that into account. Admissions officers know the various high schools around the country (remember, it’s their job!). What they don’t know about a high school, they learn from a high school profile which your high school will typic
