What Is an AP Scholar?

An Advanced Placement (AP) scholar is a student who has taken and excelled in the AP program, which is a college-level curriculum offered in high school. There are different levels of AP scholars based on the number of AP exams taken and the scores earned. Being an AP scholar is considered a prestigious achievement that signals a student's academic excellence and dedication to rigorous coursework. 

To become an AP Scholar, a student must take at least one AP exam and earn a score of 3 or higher. This score indicates that the student has demonstrated college-level mastery of the subject matter. However, different levels of AP Scholar recognition require more exams and higher scores.

For example, an AP Scholar with Honor must earn an average score of 3.25 or higher on all AP exams taken and scores of 3 or higher on at least four of those exams. 

AP Scholar awards 

The AP Scholar Awards are annually given to high school students who have displayed exceptional academic achievement in their AP courses and exams. These awards are a recognition for students who work relentlessly and commit themselves to a rigorous academic program.

There are different levels of AP Scholar Awards, and each level has its own requirements and criteria. These awards not only acknowledge a student's accomplishments but also provide them with greater opportunities for admission to top-rated colleges and universities around the world. 

The award has different categories, beginning with AP Scholar award to the AP Scholar with Distinction. Candidates who score at least 3 on three or more AP exams are designated AP Scholars, those who score an average of at least 3.25 on all their AP exams can receive the AP Scholar with Honor award, and students with an average score of at least 3.5 on all their exams become AP Scholars with Distinction.

The highest level is the National AP Scholar award, given to students who receive an average score of 4 or higher on all their AP exams and a score of 4 on eight or more AP exams. 

The AP Scholar awards inspire and motivate students to perform academically at higher levels. It encourages students to take the most challenging courses, such as AP, where they will be exposed to a more in-depth curriculum and learn skills that are beneficial in college and their professional careers.

Also, it highlights the efforts that students have put in to become academically diverse and competitive. 

Prepare for the AP Scholar Exams 

Here are some tips to help you prepare for the AP Scholar Exams. 

Firstly, start early. The earlier you begin preparing for the exams, the better. Create a study schedule and stick to it. You can start by going through your course material to understand the topics you need to cover. Break down each topic into subtopics and allocate specific times to study each subtopic. 

Secondly, practice, practice, practice. Work through as many practice exams and questions as you can. It will also help to identify areas that you need to focus on. You can find practice exams and questions online or purchase study guides and textbooks. 

Thirdly, get help when you need it. If you are having difficulty with a particular topic, do not hesitate to seek help. You can reach out to your teacher, tutor, or study group for assistance. Also, make sure to attend review sessions and ask questions to clarify any doubts that you may have. 

Lastly, take care of yourself. It is crucial to prioritize your physical and mental well-being during the exam period. You should get enough sleep, eat a healthy diet, and exercise regularly. Also, avoid cramming the night before the exam. Instead, spend some time relaxing and going over your notes.