A UNC study released in November found that high school students who took up to five college-level courses, such as Advanced Placement, on average had a higher GPA than students who didn’t take any — but the difference between those who took five and those who took more than five was negligible.
This study shows that the University is thankfully reaffirming its commitment to evaluate students based on results, not just appearance.
The admissions office is now taking this study into account and reevaluating the importance of these classes.
It can’t be assumed any longer that more AP classes always means a more capable student.
The number of AP courses that a prospective student takes is not necessarily an accurate reflection of the student’s intellectual capability.
Surely, AP classes do say something about the student who took them. They show the student took advantage of what was offered to him or her.
Students might not have a say in what classes are given at their school — not all schools have 20 AP classes to choose from — but they can choose to exhaust all of their resources.
While admissions officers said that they do not want students to be discouraged from challenging themselves, students shouldn’t take AP classes simply because they look good on an application.
Admissions officers should reinforce this idea to future applicants.
