Advanced Placement Program

THE AP ADVANTAGE

	Gain an edge in college preparation
	Stand out in the college admissions process
	Broaden your intellectual horizon
	Take AP classes

What is Advanced Placement (AP)?

The Advanced Placement (AP) Program enables students to pursue college-level studies while still in high school. AP offers many course options for students from a wide array of interests and backgrounds to participate in a rigorous academic curriculum. Based on their performance on AP Exams, students can earn credit, advanced placement, or both for college.  Participation in AP course and exams gives students the chance to get a head start on the sort of work they will encounter in college, and to demonstrate to colleges that they are ready for that challenge.

Why is access to AP important?

A 1999 study by the U.S. Department of Education indicated that a high school program of high academic intensity and quality – precisely the kind offered by the AP Program – is one of the best predictors of college success.

	85% of high school students who took AP courses continued their education after high school
	The best indicator of whether a student would complete a college degree was the student’s high school exposure to AP course work.
	45% of students who have taken one AP course and 61% of students who have taken two or more AP courses are completing their bachelor’s degrees in four years or less.
	Only 29% of students who enroll in colleges without having taken AP are completing their bachelor’s degrees on schedule.
	60% of all recent high school graduates entering a community college last year needed to take at least one remedial course.

In Clayton County Public Schools, we firmly believe that setting high standards for all students creates greater opportunity for future success. We are committed to providing opportunities for and encouraging all students to succeed at high levels. Here are just a few examples of how we are using College Board's Advanced Placement Program to make that happen.

	Every student in Clayton County Public Schools can enroll in Advanced Placement courses
	Clayton County Public Schools offers over 18 Advanced Placement Courses
	Since 2002-2003, AP enrollment has increased from 986 students to 2,207 in 2005-06.