What's CP?

I keep hearing about 'CP' courses, but I'm not sure what they are. Can someone explain what CP stands for and how these courses differ from AP or honors classes?

CP stands for "College Preparatory" courses. These classes are designed to prepare high school students for college-level work and generally have a more challenging curriculum than regular classes. However, they are not as rigorous as Advanced Placement (AP) or honors courses.

The main difference between CP, AP, and honors courses lies in their difficulty, content, and how colleges perceive them. AP courses follow a standardized curriculum set by the College Board, and students can earn college credit by taking the AP exam at the end of the course. Honors courses, on the other hand, are more advanced and demanding than regular classes but do not have a standardized curriculum or offer exams for college credit.

CP courses are below honors and AP courses in terms of difficulty but are still more challenging than the typical high school class. Although CP courses are not as highly regarded as AP or honors courses, they still demonstrate a commitment to academic rigor, and colleges often view them favorably when evaluating an applicant's transcript.

It's essential to consider balancing your course load when choosing classes. Select a mix of CP, honors, and AP courses that align with your interests, strengths, and potential major in college while still maintaining a manageable workload. This approach will demonstrate your dedication to academics and help you develop a strong college application.