Advanced Placement (AP) Information
The Advanced Placement Program, administered by The College Board, allows students to participate in college level courses and possibly earn college credit while still in high school. Secondary schools and colleges cooperate in this program to give students the opportunity to show mastery in college-level courses by taking the AP exam in May of each school year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the advantages of taking AP courses?
The main advantage of taking an AP course is advanced preparation for college. Additionally, students who score well on AP exams may receive college credit while still in high school. The AP exams are given every year in May. Scores are reported to the colleges designated by the student and range from 1 (no recommendation) to 5 (extremely qualified). Each college determines the scores to be accepted for credit. Colleges may award three, and sometimes six, hours of credit per test. It is the responsibility of the student to check with the colleges in which they are interested in to see if they accept AP exams for credits.
What is the difference between an Honors and AP class?
AP classes are college level courses that are more challenging and rigorous. AP classes require energetic, involved, and motivated students.
Why should I take an AP class? What will it do to my GPA?
Students who succeed in AP courses generally do well in college as a result of rigorous academic preparation. AP classes are weighted on a 5.0 scale. It is not advised to take numerous AP courses without serious consideration and teacher recommendations. Doing poorly in an AP course will affect your GPA.
What AP courses/exams does Downers Grove High School offer?
Biology, Chemistry, Physics C Mechanics, Physics C E&M, Environmental Science, English Language and Composition, English Literature and Composition , Government and Politics, European History, U.S. History, Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Psychology, Calculus AB/BC, Statistics, Computer Science, French, German, Spanish, Music Theory, AP Studio Art.
How much does it cost to take an AP course?
If you elect to take the AP examination in the spring, the fee is $103 per exam for 2025. Students may qualify for financial assistance from The College Board if necessary. Please see your school counselor to see if you qualify.
If I take an AP course, do I have to take the exam?
No. We recommend you discuss this with your AP teacher. Furthermore, if you do poorly on the exam, your score will not adversely affect your chances of college admittance (but doing poorly in the course will.)
Advanced Placement Exam Schedule
Department Information:
Access current class information in the 2024-2025 Academic Planning Guide
- AP Computer Science - Presentation
- AP Computer Science - Handout
- AP English
- AP Fine Arts Offerings
- AP Math
- AP Macroeconomics
- AP Microeconomics
- AP Governement and Politics
- AP Psychology
- AP Science
- World Language AP Course FAQ
- AP US History
2025-2026 Academic Planning Guide
Important Dates for AP Testing
Click here for the 2025 AP Exam schedule
Students will receive information about AP Exams in their AP classes.
If you have any questions, please contact the Downers Grove South College and Career Center at jwittvanorny@csd99.org