Overview

The AP Program enables willing students to pursue college-level studies while still in high school. The program consists of college-level courses developed by the AP Program that high schools can choose to offer, and corresponding exams that are administered once a year. EPISD covers the costs of these exams; therefore, all students enrolled in an AP class will take an AP exam.  

Benefits of taking AP courses

Regardless of the AP exam score, completing an AP course and taking an AP exam advances students academically, developing skills that will help them succeed in current classes and in college, such as time management, critical thinking, scholarly writing, and independent study. 

Higher GPA points are awarded in Tier I advanced courses to reflect the rigor of the curriculum. For example, a "100" in an AP course equals 5.0 rather than 4.0 in a regular class. See Local Policy EIC for the letter grade conversion chart.

College Credit

AP exam scores of 3, 4, or 5 can earn students college credit, or advanced placement (meaning students could skip certain courses in college). Use this College Board tool to find colleges that offer credit or placement for AP exam scores. Examples of college credit earned from AP exams at the following colleges and universities:

District Courses

Advanced Placement courses are open to all EPISD high school students.* Ask your school counselor about the AP courses offered at your campus.

*AP Spanish Language and Culture is offered at participating middle schools.

Online Resources

AP Students
AP Courses and Exams
Texas Education Agency: Advanced Placement

Advanced Course Comparison

Homeschooled students who want to take an AP exam, should contact the AP Coordinator at their neighborhood high school as early in the school year as possible to discuss the registration process. As per Legal Policy EK, "a district shall permit a homeschooled student to participate in an administration of the PSAT/NMSQT or a college advanced placement test offered by the district." Further, "a district shall require a homeschooled student to pay the same fee to participate in such a test that a student enrolled in the district is required to pay." At this time, EPISD pays the fee of AP exams. Click here for more information regarding registering for an AP exam.