How much does high school social studies class variety matter?

I’m a bit stressed planning my schedule for next year because my school only offers a few AP social studies courses. I'm worried it won't look challenging enough for colleges. How critical is it to have a wide range of social studies classes in high school? Do colleges care if we don’t have a lot of variety but still take the most challenging classes available to us?

Understanding your concerns, it's great that you're thinking proactively about your course selection. If your high school offers a limited range of AP social studies courses, rest assured that colleges assess your transcript in the context of what is available to you at your school. Admissions officers do not expect you to take courses that aren't offered. Instead, they look for students who take the most rigorous courses available to them.

However, if you're interested in showcasing a breadth of knowledge in social studies, consider looking for opportunities outside of your school's curriculum. This could include online courses (ensure they are credible and, if possible, offer certification upon completion), community college classes, or summer academic programs. Engaging in these types of academic pursuits demonstrates to colleges your initiative and genuine interest in social studies, which can be a strong point in your application.

That being said, it's also important to balance your schedule to avoid being overwhelmed. Colleges prefer to see students excel in a challenging, yet manageable, course load rather than overextending themselves. So, do what feels right for your academic stamina and interests, and remember that your well-being is key to your success. If you are able to maintain strong grades in the AP courses you do take and possibly supplement with other learning opportunities, you'll be presenting yourself as a motivated and capable student, which is exactly what colleges are looking for.