Advanced Placement (AP)
Advanced Placement (AP) is an internationally recognised academic programme with a range of university-level courses across seven disciplines:
Arts, English, Social Studies, Mathematics and Computer Science, Sciences, World Languages, and Interdisciplinary.
AP courses are designed to provide students with the same learning environment, academic rigour, and pace as a first-year university-level course. Not only are students prepared for university, but AP courses can provide advanced standing, allowing students to gain university credits from their AP courses.
At least 3, but preferably 4, AP courses and examinations are considered to fulfil the entry requirements of universities and colleges. Offers will vary depending on the institution or the course.
ACS Cobham offers more than 20 AP courses, all of which are one year in duration. Most AP courses culminate in a standardised exam administered during the 2-week testing period in May. Students also gain credit for the High School Diploma by taking AP courses.
What is the AP programme?
What are the benefits of studying the Advanced Placement programme?
How do AP courses differ from A-levels?
Are AP courses aimed only at students wishing to study in the US?
Which AP courses are available to students?
How are the courses assessed?
Are AP courses accepted by universities across the globe?
AP Awards and Recognitions
AP International Diploma
This is awarded to students who display mastery on AP exams across several disciplines, and represents an exceptional level of achievement.
Students must earn scores of 3 or higher on five or more AP exams.
AP Capstone Diploma
AP Capstone is an innovative diploma programme that gives students an opportunity to apply critical thinking, collaborative problem-solving, and research skills in a cross-curricular context.
AP Capstone built on the foundation of a two-year High School course sequence — AP Seminar and AP Research — and is designed to complement and enhance the in-depth, discipline-specific study provided through AP courses.
It cultivates curious, independent, and collaborative learners and prepares them to make logical, evidence-based decisions.
AP Seminar and Research Certificate
AP Seminar and Research form part of the AP Capstone Diploma Programme. To gain the full diploma, students will need to have followed at least four other AP courses with scores of three or higher.
If students only complete AP Seminar and AP Research components they will receive the certificate.
75
countries recognise the AP programme including the UK, US and Canada
650
universities outside the US accept AP courses for admissions
120
UK Universities use AP courses for admissions
Taking the AP programme has provided me with a range of skills that will benefit me at university and beyond. Through AP classes, I learned to manage my study time and create my own study schedules, rather than relying on predetermined deadlines and class time. The AP programme also gave me a taste of university-level material, allowing me to delve into subjects in greater depth than I would have with regular High School courses.
