Advanced Placement at Smoky Hill

The College Board Advanced Placement (AP) Program gives students an opportunity to seek college-level studies while still in high school. By taking the AP classes and exams, students may gain advanced placement and/or college credit. Students’ scores on AP Exams may earn them up to a full year’s credit from their college or university and be eligible for prestigious awards.

Being enrolled in AP courses enhances entry into major colleges and universities. This is especially important for those interested in highly selective colleges.
 
While AP courses are designed for juniors and seniors, qualified underclassmen may also register for these classes and examinations. Students are encouraged to take AP courses in their areas of strength or high interest.
 
AP Scholar
Granted to students who receive scores of 3 or higher on three or more AP Exams.
 
AP Scholar with Honor
Granted to students who receive an average score of at least 3.25 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams.
 
AP Scholar with Distinction
Granted to students who receive an average score of at least 3.5 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on five or more of these exams.
 
State AP Scholar
Granted to one male and one female student in each U.S. state and the District of Columbia with scores of 3 or higher on the greatest number of AP Exams, and then the highest average score (at least 3.5) on all AP Exams taken.
 
National AP Scholar
Granted to students in the United States who receive an average score of at least 4 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 4 or higher on eight or more of these exams.
 
AP courses receive weighted grades and AP Scholars are recognized at graduation.
 
AP examinations are administered on national test dates in early May of each year. Every exam is graded on a 5-point scale:

5 = extremely well qualified 
4 = well qualified
3 = qualified
2 = possibly qualified
1 = no recommendation
 

Every student planning to attend college should enroll in at least one AP course and take the examination. 
 
Recent research from the US Department of Education, Clifford Adelman’s “Answers in the Toolbox,” indicates that completion of rigorous coursework is the overriding factor in graduation from college. Students who take AP classes are more likely to attain a degree. AP courses can also help you develop the time management skills, study habits, and discipline you’ll need to be successful in college.​