Class load for high school seniors

Hey, guys and gals! Now that we're looking at our last year, how many hard classes should we aim to take? I don't wanna cram too much but don't want things too easy either.

Defining what qualifies as "too much" or "too easy" really boils down to your individual capacity and what you can handle without sacrificing your academic performance or mental health. Nevertheless, as a guideline, many successful applicants at top colleges undertake about five to seven challenging classes in their senior year, which often include a mix of Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) classes, honors level courses, or dual-enrollment college courses, depending on what your high school offers.

Maintaining a rigorous course load throughout high school, including your senior year, is crucial. It demonstrates your academic rigor and readiness for college-level coursework. However, balance is key. Taking challenging courses should not come at the expense of your grades or extracurricular involvement. If certain hard classes require more time and energy, consider balancing them with less demanding classes.

Remember what really matters is the quality of your experiences, not the quantity. It's crucial to continue your involvement in a few meaningful extracurriculars where you've developed considerable expertise or leadership. Overall, design your senior year schedule considering these factors. Remember to leave some time for college applications, other responsibilities, and your own well-being! It's your last year of high school, so take time to enjoy it, too.