What exactly is an honors class?

Hey all, I've heard some chatter about honors classes. I was just wondering, what exactly are they? Are they different than AP classes? Will it look good on my college application if I take them? Any insight would be helpful!

Sure, happy to clarify! Honors classes are courses designed to challenge students and provide more in-depth study in a particular subject. These classes often go beyond the standard curriculum, delve into more complex ideas, and usually require more work than the typical classes but can be highly rewarding in terms of learning outcomes.

Comparatively, Advanced Placement (AP) courses are standardized high school courses that are roughly equivalent to undergraduate college courses. They provide students the opportunity to earn college credit while still in high school. AP classes are generally more rigorous and in-depth than Honors classes.

Whether you take an honors or an AP class (or both), colleges appreciate seeing them on an application as they demonstrate your ability to handle a challenging curriculum. However, keep in mind that quality is often more beneficial than quantity. Overloading on challenging courses just for the sake of doing so can lead to stress and potential burnout. Challenge yourself appropriately, but also balance your course load with your other commitments and interests, like extracurricular activities.

Remember, it's not just about class difficulty. Admissions officers will also consider your grades. So, it's often better to earn a high grade in an honors class than a lower grade in an AP one. You want to maintain a strong GPA while also challenging yourself academically.

Going back to your question about how it could look on your college application, taking honors classes can indeed add to the strength of your application. It's an indicator of your academic rigor and your ability to succeed in advanced coursework. However, remember that colleges look at your whole application, including GPA, test scores, essays, extracurriculars, and letters of recommendation. So, while honors classes can strengthen your academic profile, they are just one piece of the overall package. Balance is key!