Are eight AP classes enough?

Hi everyone, I'm planning on taking eight AP classes in total by the time I graduate. Do you think that's enough to be considered a strong applicant? What do colleges generally look for in terms of AP course load?

Hi there! Taking eight AP classes by the time you graduate is an impressive accomplishment, and it will definitely be seen as a strong course load by most colleges. However, it's essential to keep in mind that the expectations for the number of AP courses vary based on the resources and opportunities provided by your school.

To put your AP course load into context, colleges will look at how many AP classes your school offers and how many of those you have taken advantage of. For instance, if your school offers 20 AP classes and you've taken eight, that demonstrates a good level of rigor. But if your school only offers ten, taking eight would show an even stronger commitment to academic rigor.

Also, consider your prospective major and interests when selecting your AP courses. Colleges may appreciate if you've taken AP classes that relate to your intended major or your intellectual passions. This shows that you're genuinely interested in the subjects and not just taking AP classes for the sake of appearing competitive.

In conclusion, eight AP classes should be enough to be considered a strong applicant, but it's essential to consider the context of your school's offerings and your individual passions. Balance your AP classes with other important aspects of your application, such as extracurricular activities and essays, to present a compelling profile to colleges.