AP Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • What is AP?

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    The College Board's AP Program offers college-level courses and exams that you can take in high school.

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  • Do AP courses have prerequisites?

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    Some AP classes have recommended courses you should take first—check the specific course page for that information. Talk to your school counselor or a teacher to find out more.

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  • How many AP classes can I forecast for?

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    West Linn High School does not recommend students enroll in more AP courses than they are academically  prepared for. The strongly encouraged limits are: No more than 1 during 9th grade, no more  than 2 during 10th grade, and no more than 3 during 11th and 12th grade. 

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  • Are AP courses weighted?

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    Yes, AP course grades are “weighted” on a 5-point scale rather than the standard 4-point scale. The additional point will be added to the cumulative GPA points.

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  • What is the AP course workload?

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    AP classes can be challenging, but that doesn’t mean you’re not up to the task. If you’re willing to work hard and if you’re prepared academically, you should be able to succeed in an AP course.

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  • When are the AP exams?

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    An exam schedule is set by the College Board beginning in May. Here is the link to the AP Calendar.

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  • Can I test with accommodations?

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    Accommodations must be requested and approved through and by The College Board. It is recommended that families start the process as soon as possible. Click HERE for more information. 

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  • How do I register for the exam?

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    Students will register for AP Exams in the fall of each school year. It is a 3-step process: 1) Turn in a paper registration form to the testing coordinator, 2) Join the appropriate AP classroom(s) with the join code provided by the AP teacher 3) Pay the exam fees to the bookkeeper. 

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  • How do I pay for the exam?

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    Students will be charged a fee for each exam. Fee waivers are available upon request, see WLHS AP Coordinator for more information.

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  • Can I take an AP exam if I’m not enrolled in the class?

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    Yes, AP exams may be taken without taking the course. If a student plans on taking an AP exam for a course they are not enrolled in at West Linn High School, email WLHS AP Coordinator as soon as possible. 

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  • Can I take the AP exam for courses not offered at WLHS?

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    Yes, exams may be taken without taking the course. Contact the AP Coordinator as soon as possible. 

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  • How long are the AP exams?

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    The total time for administration of the exams varies from 3 to 4.5 hours. The student arrival time for the morning exams is 7:00 a.m.; 11:00 a.m. for afternoon exams. Students may not be dismissed until an exam has officially ended. Afternoon exams end between 4:00 and 4:30 p.m. If a student plays a sport or has a job, it is their responsibility to inform their coach or employer of the AP obligation and arrangements should be made accordingly.

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  • Where can I find out more about specific AP courses and tests?

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    Read the Bulletin for AP Students and Parents given to students in their AP class, visit the College Board Website, and/or contact your counselor.

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