Are AP Classes Hard? What to Expect & How to Prepare

Advanced Placement (AP) classes are known for being challenging. They are basically college-level classes offered to high school students. They are “hard,” but that doesn’t mean they are impossible. With the right mindset and strategies, AP courses can be a great way to stretch your knowledge and academic skills. 

Even though AP courses are rigorous, you can earn college credit for them and prepare for higher education. Let’s break it all down and see what it is that makes AP classes so tough, how to know when you are ready, and what you need to do to succeed.

What Makes AP Classes Hard?

AP classes are college-level courses offered to high school students; this means that they come with higher expectations than other high school-level work. What is it that makes some students feel so pressured?

Depth and Speed of Content

AP classes cover a lot of material in a short time. It’s about the same as an introductory college course. But the difference is that the time to cover the material is much shorter than what is given in the college setting. It can be challenging to work quickly through complex concepts, and you have to spend quite a bit of time outside the classroom studying them.

Independent Learning and Reading Requirements

Basically, there’s a lot more homework expected in AP classes. You’ll need to read material, be ready to discuss it, and build on your knowledge. This can be tough, unless you stay organized and motivated.

Frequent Quizzes, Tests, Essays, or Labs

Regular assessments are a big part of an AP course. Depending on the course, you may have quizzes, essays, or labs to complete regularly. These are not just quick reviews; they will require critical thinking, detailed analysis, and synthesis of information.

Cumulative End-of-Year AP Exam

At the end of each AP course, you will take the AP exam. This is a timed, comprehensive test that can determine whether you get college credit for the course or not. The exam will include at least two sections, but some have more. Exams include multiple-choice questions, free-response sections, essays, and sometimes hands-on components like labs or portfolios.

Although some students experience these challenges, others thrive in AP classes. Taking AP isn’t for everyone, but many students enjoy the challenge that comes along with more advanced material. Don’t be put off by what others find difficult – it’s more important to think about what works best for you in your current situation. 

AP Classes vs. Honors vs. Standard Classes

AP classes give you the strongest GPA boost, since their scores are weighted. They are also looked at most favorably by colleges. AP classes expect you to be able to work independently, apply critical thinking, and self-direction than standard and honors courses. Here’s a chart that provides a good comparison.

Are AP Classes Worth the Challenge?

Choosing to take AP classes is an individual decision. Whether it’s the best choice for you depends on your academic and career goals. There are a lot of benefits for students who choose to put in the work. Here are a few things that make them worth the challenge for most students.

• College credit opportunities. Scoring well on AP exams sometimes lets you skip introductory college courses, which saves you both time and money.
  

• Stand out in college admissions. Admissions officers tend to value students who challenge themselves academically with AP courses.
  

• Develop academic skills. AP courses can help you improve time management, writing, and analytical skills, so you are better prepared for college-level work.

If you start an AP course but find that it is too challenging for you, you are not stuck. You can usually switch to an honors or a standard class instead. AP classes are optional and can be dropped or replaced if needed.

How to Know If You’re Ready for an AP Class

Are you wondering if you’re ready to start AP classwork? Start by talking it over with your school counselor, career coach, or your parents. Then, ask yourself some questions. You are the only one who will really know if you are ready, and self-assessment helps you decide.

Take a Self-Assessment Quiz:

• “Do I manage my time well?”
  

• “Can I stay on top of long-term projects?”
  

• “Am I confident in writing and reading at a fast pace?”
  

• “Do I want a challenge and academic growth?”

If you can honestly answer “yes” to most of these questions, then an AP course might be a good fit.

Tips to Succeed in Your First AP Class

Stay Ahead on Reading and Homework

Pace yourself so you don’t fall behind. Catching up is hard since the classes go faster than traditional and honors classes.

Form a Study Group or Find a Study Partner

Being able to discuss material with others can help reinforce your own understanding. It can also help you work through more difficult sections and make studying more manageable.

Ask Questions and Go to Office Hours

Don’t be afraid to ask your AP teachers for help during their office hours, especially if you’re having trouble with specific concepts. AP teachers welcome and expect questions from students.

Use Active Study Methods

Passive review, reading, and rereading notes is not as effective as using active study strategies. There are many study tools available, such as creating and using flashcards and doing practice problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many AP classes should I take at once?

When you are starting out, you may not want to take more than one or two classes, but this is up to you. Some students only take one AP subject so they can figure out how the workload fits their learning styles. Other students are comfortable taking two or three courses to start. It is a very personal decision and depends on how you balance it all out. For instance, consider other factors like other schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and your own well-being. 

You may also find it helpful to discuss your AP classes and choices with a teacher, counselor, or your parents. Other students can provide some insights into a specific class they have taken. Don’t be afraid to ask questions!

Should I drop an AP class?

Colleges will only consider classes you completed and the AP exam score you get. It’s more important to prioritize your wellbeing and performance in other classes. Colleges value perseverance, but they also respect self-awareness. 

Do colleges prefer AP or dual enrollment?

Colleges typically respect both since they both involve college-level rigor. However, colleges can have unique preferences. Some of them may give more weight to AP classes, while others prefer courses that offer college credit on a transcript.

What’s the easiest AP class to start with?

Which AP class is easiest depends on your personal interests and academic strengths. Some of the common AP starter classes (opens in a new tab) include AP Psychology, AP Environmental Science, or AP Human Geography. These are all considered to be more manageable for students just starting this type of coursework.

Final Thoughts

AP classes are challenging, but they are manageable if you have the right strategies and attitude. Choose subjects that you’re passionate about and genuinely interested in. Keep in mind that academic growth usually happens when you push your limits. With proper preparation, support, and motivation, AP classes can open doors to college success and lifelong learning opportunities.

Sources:

Official Released Questions (opens in a new tab)

Choosing an AP Course (opens in a new tab)

2025 AP Exam Pass Rate Data (opens in a new tab)