Easily save/share this blog!

Junior and Senior Year Class Selection

So, it's the end of the school year and it's time to pick classes for next year...if you haven't already. You may be wondering which classes to take...how many APs and IBs...what will colleges think of this schedule?

Simply put, colleges want to see that you challenged yourself. The term is "academic rigor" and depending on the colleges that you apply to, you need to take the most rigorous course of study. If your school offers the IB (International Baccalaureate) program, you had better be enrolled. It would not be impressive if you are taking the next most rigorous or least rigorous program...even if those are called "honors" courses. AP/IB classes are grouped differently from honors on most applications and receive better consideration. Now, in contrast, that's not to say that you have to take a full schedule of AP classes to prove that you took the most rigorous program. Five or six AP classes out of a possible seven should be sufficient---you do NOT have to overdo it. Sometimes it is necessary to take non-AP classes to pursue special interests like dance, photography or a sport. Go for it! High school is a time to explore and colleges will appreciate your independence if it's just for a class or two.

What about...science or a foreign language? Is it okay not to take it senior year? Sure. As long as you meet your state requirements for graduation, which typically will include four years of English and math and perhaps less for social sciences, science and a foreign language. I finished my science requirement junior year with IB Physics and used my extra class senior year to take a supplement math class. Meet the requirements and use your schedule to further personal development!

Remember that colleges will see which classes you took, whether you dropped a class or not and of course, how well you did! Also, your class selection influences your GPA. Harder classes usually get you a higher class rank and a better weighted GPA...if you do well in them. By some scales, an A in an honors or lower class is the same as a B in an IB or AP class. Always check with your guidance counselor when you make these choices and ask them what type of impact it will have on you. Speak to students a year ahead of you to find out who the best teachers are and whether or not you can handle the workload that you select. Happy class-picking!

Check out College Connecting for free info from great colleges!