Advanced Placement (AP) Program

Although perceived as an American program, AP courses are approved by the College Board and are recognized for university entrance in over 65 different countries. These one-year long academic courses are similar in nature to a university introductory course. They are among the most rigorous courses offered at TASIS and allow students to study areas of interest in depth. Students can consider taking multiple AP courses depending on their academic interests and the recommendation of teachers and departments, keeping in mind the need for balance in an academic schedule and in life. TASIS offers the following AP courses: • Art History • Biology • Calculus AB • Calculus BC • Chemistry • Chinese Language and Culture • Comparative Government • Computer Science A • Computer Science Principles • English Literature & Composition • English Language & Composition • Environmental Science • European History • French Language and Culture • Human Geography • Macro Economics • Micro Economics • Music Theory • Physics 1 & 2 • Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism • Physics C Mechanics • Psychology • Spanish Language & Culture • Statistics •US Government • US History AP courses culminate with an AP exam during the first two weeks of May. TASIS students taking an AP course are required to sit for the exam. Each exam is scored independently of the course work done in school on a 5-point scale (3 is considered a passing score): • 5 = extremely well qualified • 1 = no recommendation Students list their AP scores on university applications. Engagement in AP courses has a direct link to success in university. Courses are rigorous and thorough and teach students how to write, think, problem solve, and calculate with clarity and authority. AP students are willing to challenge themselves, and develop strong study habits and a rich, university-level knowledge of the subject matter. Advanced Credit Many American university systems allow students to use AP credits to skip survey courses and: • Take advanced courses sooner • Reduce the number of university core curriculum requirements • Increase flexibility for students to graduate early, study abroad, participate in internships, double major, or work towards a master’s degree. Universities throughout the world recognize the AP Program and look favorably upon its academically rigorous nature. Additionally, in the UK, the AP is accepted as a valuable qualification for admissions TASIS Requirements Ready to take a college level course • Academic maturity • Independent worker • Strong skills in research, reading, and writing • Mainstream proficiency in English. Students need to have a score of CEFR B2 to C2 or WIDA 4+ or above to participate in AP courses.

Self Study In addition to taking AP classes at TASIS, students may self-study an AP subject that is not usually scheduled for examination at our school. Students who intend to pursue this option must consult the AP Coordinator within the first two weeks of school. Please note that university predicted grades for self-studied AP exams can only be submitted if supported by documentation from an AP-trained tutor who has assessed the student over the course of their study.