How Advanced Placement Works
AP courses are one-year courses designed to introduce students to the depth and academic demands of college-level study. Students explore subjects in greater detail, work more independently and develop the analytical, research and problem-solving skills expected in higher education.
Each AP course concludes with an external examination in May. Exams are scored on a scale from 1 to 5, and a score of 3 or above may lead to university credit or advanced placement, depending on the policies of the university a student attends. AP qualifications are recognized by universities in the United States and internationally, giving students an academic credential that can travel with them as they consider different university destinations.
Building an Individualized Academic Pathway
AP gives students the flexibility to challenge themselves more deeply in particular subjects without requiring them to follow one fixed diploma program.
At Stamford, students can select AP courses across areas including mathematics, sciences, humanities and languages, then combine them with other senior course options to create an academic program around what they want to explore further.
Academic and College Counselors work with students and families as they make these decisions, considering academic strengths, university requirements and future areas of study. This allows rigor to be focused where it is most meaningful for the individual student rather than expecting every student to follow the same combination of advanced courses.
Preparing for University
Taking an AP course gives students experience of working at a higher academic level before they leave school. They learn to manage more demanding content, study with greater independence and demonstrate their understanding through an internationally recognized external examination.
For students considering universities in the United States, strong AP results may also provide opportunities for college credit or placement into more advanced university courses, although policies vary between institutions. AP results are also considered by universities in many other countries as part of their admissions processes.
At Stamford, AP is therefore not a separate destination. It is one of the ways students can shape their final years of High School around the subjects they want to pursue and the possibilities they want to keep open.
Become Part of the Stamford Community
Join a community of students, educators and families from around the world, where your child can feel known, explore what interests them and grow in confidence as they find their own path.