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AP/IB

AP and Exam Credits

The Advanced Placement coursework can open doors to colleges and universities and to honors programs at other universities. More importantly, completing a successful AP experience can better prepare students for college success. SMUHSD offers a wide variety of Advanced Placement (AP) courses and International Bachelorette (IB) courses at Capuchino High School. AP and IB curriculum and the accompanying exam represent a nationally standardized program. Many admissions offices, particularly at competitive colleges, show a preference for students who have successfully completed an Advanced Placement or IB curriculum.

While there are many advantages of having Advanced Placement or IB courses on a student’s transcript, students are cautioned about enrolling in too many AP courses within any semester:

  • Time demands from juggling multiple AP courses should be considered carefully.
  • A well-balanced transcript that includes high-level electives which enrich a student’s experience are also important in the college admissions process.

AP students can expect to devote considerable time on their own outside of class in preparation for Advanced Placement assignments and assessments. 

Advanced Placement courses offer high school students an opportunity to study college-level material while still enrolled in high school. By participating in the Advanced Placement examination program, students may receive advanced placement, credit, or both for a specific college or university. Check with specific colleges or universities to see if Advanced Placement credit is accepted.

Check your school's course guide for more information regarding AP and IB course offerings.

UC AP & Exam Credits

UC offers college credit to students who have taken and scored well on Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB) and A-level exams. Learn more.

CSU AP and Exam Credits

Learn more.

AP Credit Policy Search

Your AP scores could earn you college credit or advanced placement (meaning you could skip certain courses in college). Use the AP Credit Policy Search Tool to find colleges that offer credit or placement for AP scores.