Will 2020 AP Credits be Accepted by Colleges? A Comprehensive Guide
When it comes to AP credits, the reputation and prestige of the College Board and its AP exams have never been debated. These exams continue to be significant indicators of your academic abilities and potential. However, it's important to understand that colleges and universities have the flexibility to decide whether to accept these credits.
The Flexibility of College Policies
Colleges and universities have a significant amount of latitude in whether to accept AP credits. While some institutions might take this opportunity to simplify their processes, others may be cautious due to the unique circumstances of the year.
The Decision-making Process
Ultimately, the decision about accepting AP credits lies with individual schools. There is no mandatory rule that requires any college to grant credit based on AP exams. Most colleges are inclined to accept them because AP courses typically cover introductory and general education courses with relatively minimal substantive work.
Special Cases and Considerations
For courses that involve skill development and lead into sequences, such as Calculus I, II, and Computer Science I, colleges may require students to demonstrate the necessary skills for advanced courses. Students who pass AP courses like AP Calculus or AP Computer Science simply due to ego-driven decisions might find themselves in challenging situations in subsequent courses.
My recommendation is to be cautious, especially for skills-intensive courses. For instance, if you plan to skip AP Computer Science A to take regular CS1, think twice. I teach a CS2 course, and I can attest to the difficulties that arise from this decision. It's often more beneficial to take a course again to ensure a solid foundation rather than skipping it and risking academic failure.
The Desirability of Students
It's worth noting that colleges naturally need students more than students need a specific educational institution. Great universities like Harvard and its peers will always have preferences, but for many colleges, student enrollment is crucial for their finances. This fall, with widespread online classes, colleges will be eager to enroll paying students.
In online courses, students have more flexibility in choosing the number of courses to take, but the quality of education may not match the immersive experience of campus life. Therefore, many colleges may offer great deals for students who are willing to enroll later or prove their capabilities.
Future Opportunities and Alternatives
While it's true that recent events have affected college enrollment, it's also an opportunity to consider a gap year to regroup or gain more practical experience. Alternatively, accepting an offer for online courses from a more selective college could provide the chance to prove your academic capabilities in a challenging environment.
In summary, the decision on accepting 2020 AP credits is complex and depends on the individual college's policies. Students should weigh their options carefully, considering both the potential benefits and the risks involved in each choice.