How to transfer AP courses to college?

I took several AP courses in high school, and I’m hoping to get college credit for them. What’s the process like for transferring AP credits to a college or university? Are there any deadlines I should be aware of?

The procedure for transferring AP credits often varies from college to college, but there are some common steps. Here's a general overview:

1. Take the AP Exam: After completing an AP course, you usually take the corresponding AP exam in May. The score you need for the credits to transfer typically depends on the institution. Higher scores (4 and 5) are generally more accepted, while on occasion, a score of 3 could suffice.

2. Send Score Reports: During the AP exam, you should have the option to send your score reports directly to the university you will be attending. If you didn’t do this at the testing site, you can order score reports to be sent later through the College Board website (the organization that administers AP exams). To do this, log into your account, select the scores you want to send, and choose the college where you'd like them sent.

3. Check the School's AP Credit Policy: Policies for accepting AP credits vary widely, so you must check with your specific college about their requirements. Some colleges might grant credit for a 3, while others may require a 4 or 5. You can usually find this information on the college's official website or by contacting the school's admissions or registrar’s office.

4. Wait for Acceptance: After the school receives your scores, they will evaluate them, and if they meet the requirements, they will award you with the corresponding course credit.

5. Check Your Transcript: Once your scores have been evaluated, the credits you've earned should appear on your college transcript. It may take some time for the credits to appear, so be patient.

Deadlines for submitting AP scores will depend on the particular school you're attending. However, it generally makes sense to send them as soon as you decide on which college you'll be attending, or as soon as you receive them if you're already in college. However, it's vital to check with your college for a specific time frame.

If you have AP scores from previous years, there is no “expiry date” for them. Most colleges will accept AP scores received at any time during your high school career.