How many AP Classes should I take?
For many students planning for college, one of the biggest questions they’ll face is, “How many AP classes should I take?” The answer isn’t just a number — it’s a reflection of your goals, your capacity for challenge, and your ability to balance your workload.
Advanced Placement (AP) courses offer students the chance to experience college-level material while still in high school. They’re known for being academically rigorous and often come with the opportunity to earn college credit by passing AP subject tests. With over 30 subjects, from AP Biology to AP Calculus to AP United States History, there’s an AP for almost every interest.
But here’s the key: just because your school offers 16+ AP classes doesn’t mean you should take them all. The number of AP courses you choose should reflect a thoughtful strategy, not a race to rack up the most difficult classes. So, how do you refine your AP course selection to best serve your goals while staying on track? How do you find your own answer to the question, “How many AP classes should I take?”
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to consider to make a smart, balanced decision about your AP journey. Specifically, we’ll talk about topics like:
- What AP classes are and how they work
- How to get into AP classes in high school
- Several AP classes pros and cons and how they affect college admissions
- How colleges evaluate AP course loads, including at highly competitive schools
- The benefits of taking AP courses online if your school’s offerings are limited
- How to select the best AP classes for college, including classes like AP English Language and Composition
- Why choosing the right number of APs matters more than choosing the most
So, whether you’re a freshman thinking ahead, a sophomore choosing your first AP, or a junior wondering if you’re “competitive enough,” read on. We’re here to help guide you through the decision-making process. Let’s get started.
What is an AP Class?
AP courses are college-level classes offered in high school through the College Board. They’re designed to mimic the content, rigor, and pace of an introductory college course. At the end of the year, students take AP subject tests, standardized exams scored on a scale of 1 to 5. Many colleges offer credit or advanced placement to students who score a 3 or higher, although top schools often look for scores of 4 or 5.
The benefits of AP classes go beyond just potential college credit. These courses help students build academic endurance, time management skills, and confidence in handling rigorous material. Tackling a class like AP English Language and Composition or AP United States History sharpens your writing and analytical abilities. Moreover, high performance in these courses gives college admissions officers a clear picture of your academic potential.
If you’re eyeing science or STEM majors, AP Biology and AP Calculus can be some of the best AP classes for college. They closely align with introductory courses STEM students will encounter early in their college careers. Some students even supplement their school offerings with AP courses online, especially if their school doesn’t offer AP subject tests or courses. We’ll discuss AP courses online in depth later in this article.
How to get into AP Classes in High School
If you’re asking, “How many AP classes should I take?”, you’re probably also wondering how to get into AP classes in high school. Well, the process usually starts with a conversation with your school counselor. Some AP classes have prerequisites, such as Algebra II for AP Calculus or a general biology course for AP Biology. Meeting these requirements prepares you for the material and helps set you up for success. Your counselor can help you figure out if your prerequisites are covered, or if you need to adjust your timeline.
That said, prerequisites aren’t always hard rules. If you feel ready for a challenge and you’ve shown academic promise, you can advocate for yourself. For instance, you may negotiate to take classes like AP English Language and Composition or AP United States History a year early. With a strong case and some teacher recommendations, you can often get approval.
Keep in mind, though, that not all schools offer every AP course. This is where AP courses online can come in handy. Platforms like Florida Virtual School or providers approved by the College Board can help you access advanced coursework. They’re helpful for students aiming to take some of the best AP classes for college that their schools don’t offer.
In closing, while there can be hurdles on the road to AP courses, they’re possible to overcome. Knowing how to get into AP classes in high school is the first step toward unlocking new opportunities.
AP Courses and College Admissions
You may be wondering, “How many AP classes should I take if I’m trying to impress colleges?” The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but there is a clear truth. AP courses are one of the best ways to show admissions officers that you’re prepared for the rigors of college-level work.
Colleges don’t just look at your GPA; they look at what’s behind that GPA. Getting a 4.0 GPA with the easiest courses at your school on your transcript is all right. But a 4.0 GPA with a mix of honors, AP, and dual enrollment or IB courses is outstanding. A transcript filled with challenging AP courses, signals that you’ve chosen the most rigorous path available. These classes are academically demanding, and your willingness to enroll in them demonstrates initiative, curiosity, and academic maturity.
That said, AP classes are just one part of your application. They’re important, yes, but they’re not everything. Admissions teams also weigh your extracurricular activities, standardized test scores (if required), letters of recommendation, and personal essays. You don’t need to overload your schedule with 10 APs just to compete. Rather, what matters is that the number and type of APs you take make sense for you and your school context.
How important are AP classes for college admission?
As mentioned above, AP classes matter, but they aren’t the only component in the college admissions process. That said, they are a key component of the holistic review process used by most colleges. This means admissions officers look at your entire academic story. It’s not just about how many APs you took, but how well you performed in them. What do those courses say about your academic strengths, and how they align with your future goals?
Here’s how AP courses can shape a college’s perspective of your transcript:
- A straight-A student who took zero AP courses might raise eyebrows. Their GPA is strong, but there’s no evidence of academic rigor.
- A student earning A’s and B’s in AP United States History and AP English Language and Composition? That shows depth, effort, and a willingness to take on — and succeed at — college-level challenges.
- A B/C student who earns A’s or B’s in AP Calculus and AP Biology? That’s a powerful signal of growth and an aptitude in STEM — especially valuable if they’re applying to a related major.
In other words, it’s not just about how many AP classes should I take, but which ones and why. When choosing the best AP classes for college, be strategic and select them based on your strengths and interests. Your transcript will carry more weight than simply stacking your schedule with the most challenging options.
How many AP Classes do top colleges expect?
When considering how many AP classes should I take, you might be wondering if there’s an easy answer. What’s the “magic number” for APs if I want to get into a top college?
Here’s the truth: there isn’t one.
Highly selective schools don’t expect a specific number of APs. Instead, they look at what’s available at your school and evaluate your performance in that context. If your school offers 20 AP courses, and you’ve taken 8–10 of the best AP classes for college applicants, great! That’s a strong sign of academic ambition. At the same time, if you take 4 of your school’s 5 AP courses, that can be just as impressive.
You won’t be penalized for not taking a class that simply wasn’t offered. In those cases, some students explore AP courses online to supplement their learning. This can be a great option if you’re aiming to challenge yourself in a particular area. It can be especially useful for students interested in niche subjects or seeking to boost their transcript for competitive colleges.
Ultimately, the answer to the question of “How many AP classes should I take?” is variable. It depends entirely on your capacity, your interests, and your school’s course offerings. Colleges want to see that you’ve maximized your opportunities without burning yourself out. Remember, quality matters just as much — if not more — than quantity.
Is 7 AP Classes enough?
As shared in the previous section, there isn’t a magic number or answer to the question, “How many AP classes should I take?” That said, students often ask, “Is 7 AP classes enough?” For many, the answer is a confident yes, especially when combined with strong grades, meaningful extracurricular activities, and solid test scores. That said, colleges aren’t counting your APs like trophies. They’re asking you to consider: How many AP classes should I take based on what’s available and what I can handle?
Context is everything. Some high schools offer only 6 or 7 AP courses in total. If you’ve taken all of them, you’ve challenged yourself to the max. On the other hand, if your school offers 30+ APs, and you’ve only taken a couple, that may require some explanation. Maybe you’ve had a very focused or balanced reason behind your course selection, which you can explain in your applications.
But even if your school offers many options, taking every AP is rarely the best path. What matters is how well you do in those classes and which ones you choose. For example, a computer science hopeful would be expected to take AP Computer Science, AP Calculus, and AP Biology. Those courses are a better choice than taking AP United States History just to add another AP to your schedule. The best AP classes for college are those that serve your needs and show that you’re ready for college challenges.
Do colleges accept online AP courses?
Certainly, the answer to the question, “How many AP classes should I take?” is based on your context and AP offerings. With that said, it’s important to note that many colleges recognize that students take AP courses online. This can be great for students at schools that don’t offer certain classes. Nevertheless, it’s important to know that the AP courses online themselves don’t automatically earn you college credit. College credit is granted based on your AP exam score, not whether you took the course in person or virtually.
If you’re interested in expanding your options through AP courses online, here’s how it works:
- You can register for a course through an approved online provider.
- You’ll still need to take the official AP exam in May at a testing center, often located at your high school.
- Your AP exam score can qualify you for credit, depending on the college’s AP credit policy.
If you’re considering online courses, talk to your school counselor first. They can help you figure out whether the class will count toward your high school graduation requirements. They can also advise you on registering for the appropriate AP exam.
Best AP Classes for College Admissions
If you’re asking how many AP classes should I take, you should also be asking: which ones are best for me?
The best AP classes for college are those that align with your intended major and showcase your strengths. Furthermore, they should give you a realistic shot at earning a high grade and a solid exam score. If you want to go into pre-med, then AP Biology, AP Chemistry, and AP Calculus are smart picks. Business major? AP Statistics, AP Economics, and AP English Language and Composition might help you stand out.
Taking AP courses that reflect your genuine interests can demonstrate commitment and academic focus in your college application personal narrative. It’s better to perform well in a rigorous, relevant course than to struggle through a class that doesn’t align with your goals. Colleges look for evidence of passion, not just performance — do what interests you.
And of course, you should think about balance. If you’re already juggling leadership roles, clubs, or sports, choose APs that enhance your academic story, not ones that push you into burnout. That’s the real secret behind choosing the best AP classes for college: playing to your strengths while preparing smartly for the future.
Choosing the right number of AP Courses for you!
Again, one of the most common questions students ask is, “How many AP classes should I take?” The answer is different for everyone. It’s about choosing a number that fits your goals, schedule, and capacity to thrive — not just survive.
While some students can manage 16+ AP courses, most do better when they thoughtfully balance APs with their extracurriculars. High school is a time to explore your various interests, so you don’t need to give up activities you love for APs. Taking AP classes isn’t just about impressing colleges—it’s about managing your time, staying healthy, and making space for your passions.
If you’re aiming for highly selective schools, you might take 8–12 APs across your four years. But that doesn’t mean you should start junior year with five APs and no free time. A better strategy? Start earlier. If your school allows it, consider taking an AP course in your sophomore year, such as AP Biology or AP United States History. From there, then gradually increase your course load.
Ultimately, think about what you want from high school. Are you aiming for an Ivy League university? Then you may want to take more APs, particularly in core academic areas. Headed to a great state university? A solid performance in 4–6 well-chosen APs can be just as powerful. Interested in a well-rounded, fulfilling experience? Mix in AP classes that align with your strengths and interests without overwhelming yourself.
Choosing the right AP Courses!
Once you’ve answered “How many AP classes should I take?”, the next question is which ones? Let’s be honest, there’s plenty of AP classes pros and cons, most stemming from the increased workload and commitment. Therefore, choosing the best AP courses is crucial.
Some of the best AP classes for college are those that cover core subjects, such as English, math, science, and history. Credit for exams in AP English Language and Composition, AP Calculus, or AP United States History often fulfills general education requirements. Good scores on these exams can give you a head start in college.
But be strategic. If science isn’t your thing, don’t take AP Chemistry just to prove something. If writing is your strong suit, AP English Language and Composition might be a better pick. If you’re math-oriented, AP Calculus could be a perfect fit. Interested in STEM? Courses like AP Biology and AP Physics can show colleges you’re serious.
And while it’s important to challenge yourself, balance is also important. A class labeled as one of the easiest AP classes might still be a wise choice. It may complement a heavy academic schedule or give you breathing room in a packed semester.
You can also explore options through AP courses online if your school doesn’t offer a subject you’re interested in. Just remember to check with your counselor to see how it fits into your graduation plan and exam registration.
One last tip: talk to upperclassmen about the class and the teacher. Are they supportive? Fair? Assign lots of homework? Knowing what to expect can help you make a decision. Taking APs with friends can also make the experience more collaborative — and less stressful.
How many AP Classes should I take? – Final Thoughts
Let’s come back to our central question: How many AP classes should I take? Now that we’ve explored the benefits, the challenges, and the strategy behind AP classes, it’s clear that there’s no universal answer. But here’s what you know now:
5 Key Takeaways
1. Colleges value rigor, but they value balance even more.
Taking 14+ AP courses and burning out isn’t impressive — it’s overwhelming. A manageable course load that allows you to succeed academically and stay involved in your school and community is far more effective.
2. Quality matters more than quantity.
It’s better to earn As and Bs in 6–8 well-chosen APs than to scrape by in 12. Focus on subjects that align with your interests or your intended major, like AP Calculus if you’re headed for engineering. Alternatively, you may choose AP English Language and Composition if you’re planning a humanities track.
3. There are many AP classes pros and cons.
Go beyond the question of “how many AP classes should I take?” Research which AP classes could be best for you by talking to teachers, friends, and counselors. Courses like AP Biology, AP United States History, and even the easiest AP classes can be valuable in building your skills. APs on a transcript demonstrates academic curiosity and an ability to handle college-level work.
4. Consider your school’s context.
Not all schools offer the same number of APs. Some schools cap access or offer only 7 to 10 APs in total. Colleges understand this, and they’ll judge your AP course load in light of what was available to you. You might even consider AP courses online if your school doesn’t offer a particular course, especially if it relates to your future goals.
5. Knowing how to get into AP classes in high school is essential.
Start by talking to teachers, meeting prerequisites, or advocating for yourself. These steps can open new academic doors you didn’t know were there.
At the end of the day, your high school experience should reflect your story, not just a checklist. AP classes are a tool — not a requirement — for growth, exploration, and college readiness. Thoughtfully choosing your AP path can help shape an application that’s both competitive and authentic.
Still wondering whether you’ve chosen the right number of APs, or how your course load stacks up at your dream schools? CollegeAdvisor can help. Our expert college advisors work one-on-one with students to create personalized academic strategies that reflect their goals, strengths, and unique circumstances. Whether you’re aiming for a top-tier university or looking to build a balanced, meaningful transcript, we can work with you.
So, one final review. How many AP classes should I take? Just enough to challenge you, without compromising who you are.
This article was written by Ashley Hollins. Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.
