AP vs Honors: What's the Difference?

Choosing between AP and Honors classes doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Both of them offer more challenging materials than your regular coursework, but they are different in many ways. It’s not really about picking the “hardest” option. Instead, it’s more about deciding the right choice to help you reach your goals, display your strengths, and achieve your future plans.

Once you have a good understanding of how AP and Honors classes are different, it’ll be easier to choose the right path to meet your academic goals confidently. Let's break down everything you need to know.

What Are Honors Classes?

Honors classes are your school's way of offering more challenging coursework. Think of them as the “next level up” from regular classes. Honors classes move at a faster pace than standard classes. You'll dive deeper into topics and tackle more advanced assignments.

Every school designs its own Honors program. This means what you learn in Honors Biology at your school might be different from another school's program.

Why students choose Honors Classes:

• Faster pace that keeps them engaged.

• Weighted GPA boost at most schools. 

• More flexibility and no big standardized test at the end.

• Colleges notice that you attempted and handled more challenging coursework.

What Are AP Classes?

Advanced Placement (opens in a new tab) (AP) classes follow a very different model. The College Board creates these college-level courses with standardized curricula and guidelines.

Every AP Biology class, no matter which school teaches it, covers the same core material. Being able to maintain this type of consistency is why universities put so much value on AP courses.

AP classes end with a standardized AP exam in May. Your exam will be scored based on a 1 to 5 scale. Most colleges consider a score of at least a 3 to be a passing grade, which often means advanced placement or college credit.

Why students choose AP classes:

• Possibility of college credit (depending on your exam score and the college’s policy (opens in a new tab))

• GPA boost. (Similar to Honors classes.)

• Highly respected by colleges, especially at more competitive and selective schools.

• Great prep for university-level work while you’re still in high school.

Key Differences Between AP and Honors Classes

Both Honors and AP classes offer more rigorous educational experiences than a typical high school class. But there are some distinct differences between the two types of classes. Here’s a quick look.

The biggest difference between the two types of courses is the standardization. AP courses offer consistent, nationally recognized content that universities understand and value.

Honors classes give schools more flexibility but less universal recognition. Both will challenge you academically, but in different ways.

How AP and Honors Classes Affect Your GPA

Typically, both AP and Honors classes offer weighted GPAs. This means an A in these courses counts for more than an A in regular high school classes.

Most schools use a 5.0 scale for weighted courses instead of the standard 4.0 scale. Some schools give AP classes slightly more weight than Honors classes, but this varies. Each school may handle weighted grades a little differently.

Remember, universities don't just look at your GPA. They examine the rigor of your course load and how you performed in challenging classes, according to university admissions experts (opens in a new tab).

The GPA boost matters, but it's not the only factor weighed in university admissions decisions.

How Universities View AP vs. Honors Courses

Universities recognize both AP and Honors classes as rigorous coursework. However, AP classes carry more weight because of their standardized nature.

Admissions officers understand exactly what an AP Psychology course covers, regardless of which school taught it. Honors classes require more context about your specific school's standards.

Neither option is universally “better” than the other. What matters most is that you're challenging yourself with the most rigorous courses available at your school.

Universities want to see that you've taken advantage of opportunities to push yourself academically. Both AP and Honors classes demonstrate your commitment to grow academically.

Which Should You Take? A Decision Guide

Choose AP Classes If...

• You're confident in the subject and want to earn potential university credit. AP classes offer the most straightforward path to college-level recognition and credit.

• You're applying to highly selective or Ivy League universities. These institutions expect to see AP courses. Taking AP courses can give you a competitive advantage on your admission application.

• You're prepared for a significant time commitment. AP classes are doable, but they will require a time commitment for studying and preparing for the final standardized exam.

Choose Honors If...

• You want academic challenge without the pressure of high-stakes standardized exams. Honors classes let you focus on learning rather than test preparation.

• You're building up to AP-level rigor. You may want to use Honors courses as stepping stones to more advanced coursework.

• Your school offers limited AP options, or you need a better work-life balance. Honors classes offer academic challenges with a little more flexibility.

Can You Take Both AP and Honors Classes?

Absolutely! Many students successfully mix AP and Honors classes throughout their high school careers.

In fact, it’s a great strategy to take AP classes in your strongest subjects. Then choose Honors classes in areas where you want to be challenged, but not the intense workload of an AP class.

This approach lets you demonstrate academic strength while maintaining a manageable schedule. You'll demonstrate to university admission officials that you can handle rigorous coursework without overwhelming yourself.

Many students start with Honors classes in their first year of high school, then gradually add AP courses as they build confidence and learn effective study skills.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Honors classes help with university admissions?

Yes, Honors classes demonstrate that you are up for being challenged academically. Most universities prefer students who take rigorous courses over those who stick to standard-level classes.

Is it better to get an A in Honors or a B in AP?

This depends on your goals and the specific university. Generally, universities prefer to see you challenge yourself, even if your grades are slightly lower. However, you don't want to sacrifice your GPA unnecessarily.

Can I get university credit from Honors classes?

Rarely. Honors classes typically don't lead directly to university credit. However, they may help you place into higher-level courses or demonstrate readiness for advanced work.

Are AP classes harder than Honors classes?

Mainly, yes. AP classes provide college-level coursework that ends with a standardized exam. However, the difficulty can vary by subject, teacher, and school policies. Difficulty also varies between students. One student may love math and science and find them easier than another student who enjoys essay courses or art.

Final Thoughts

Both AP and Honors classes help you stand out in university applications, just in different ways. AP courses offer standardized rigor and potential credit. Honors classes provide flexibility and an academic challenge.

Consider your academic strengths, university goals, and the school's specific policies when making your choice. Don't forget to factor in your other commitments and stress levels.

The best schedule is one that challenges you without overwhelming you. Whether you choose AP, Honors, or a combination of both, you're taking an important step towards your academic success.

Remember, universities want to see that you've made the most of your school's offerings. Choose the path that lets you grow, learn, and demonstrate your potential.

Sources

Benefits of AP Classes (opens in a new tab)

College Board Credit Policy Search (opens in a new tab)

How Colleges View Course Rigor (opens in a new tab)