1. Students study a subject in greater depth and are in classes with other students who are enthusiastic about sharing ideas and concepts in academically challenging ways.
   
2. Students who take AP courses are more prepared to do college work because they have learned and practiced important learning and study skills.
   
3. Students who succeed in AP courses and exams know that they have the ability to succeed in college, which helps them have the confidence to take more difficult and demanding courses.
   
4. Students who are successful in AP courses often enter college as sophomores. Over 1,400 institutions in the United States grant a full year's credit to students who have enough credits from taking AP courses and exams.
   
5. Students who take AP courses often look at things differently. They often have experiences that broaden their horizons and provide them with new insights into their own skills and interests.
   
6. Students who take the AP examination may have the $82 (2006) exam fee waived through a variety of state, federal, and non-profit programs.
   
7. Students who take AP courses improve their chances of getting into competitive colleges.
   
8. Students who take AP courses and exams increase their options at college. They may be able to take upper level courses in their field of interest or complete their undergraduate degrees in less than four years thus saving money on college tuition.
   
9. Students who excel in AP courses may receive a Scholar Award from the College Board. [Link to "AP Recognition Awards," (CSDE-APWebsite-REVPage8.doc)]
   
10. Most importantly, students who take AP courses know that they have mastered rigorous academic courses. This knowledge may encourage them to take academic risks that result in significant accomplishments in college and throughout their lives.
    

All adults should encourage and support students in selecting and succeeding in rigorous courses such as the Advanced Placement courses.

If you require further information, please contact:

Jeanne Purcell, Consultant
Advanced Placement Program
Bureau of Curriculum and Instruction
Connecticut State Department of Education
165 Capitol Avenue
P.O. Box 2219
Hartford, CT 06145
Telephone: (860) 713-6745
E-mail: jeanne.purcell@ct.gov