Advanced Placement (AP) course is like a theme park. Picking the first ride is important. Go too big after breakfast and you end up regretting your choices. But don’t worry! With the right guidance, you can start your AP journey on the right foot. And not projectile vomit on The Beast.
For international students, figuring out which AP course to begin with can feel especially confusing. The good news? There’s no “one-size-fits-all” answer, but there is a strategy that can help you make the right choice.
Yeah? And? So? What?
AP courses give students a chance to challenge themselves, build crucial skills, and earn college credit. By selecting a course that aligns with your strengths and interests, you’ll be setting yourself up for a smooth ride all the way through university.
Understanding AP Course Categories
Broadly speaking, you can do an AP in just about anything. Game design? There’s an AP. Fashion? AP course for it. Music? Yup? Statistics? Nerd! Yes! Latin? Possibile est! https://apstudents.collegeboard.org/courses You could even take a course in Chinese Language and Culture (which is written for non-Chinese speakers) - eeeeeeeeeasy! But before you rush off to pick a STEM course just because you plan to major in engineering, consider this: history is more than memorizing dates; 3D design is about more than CADCAM; Chinese language and culture is about more than China. All AP courses teach you skills you will need in college. You will think, talk and feel like a college student long before your peers have even thought about which school they can get into!
AP World History: The Ideal Starting Point
For most students, AP World History is the perfect place to begin your AP journey. Why? It’s broad, globally focused, and doesn’t require previous knowledge of specific historical events. World History helps you develop essential academic skills, such as critical thinking, writing, and analyzing large volumes of information—skills that will come in handy not only in future AP courses but also in college and beyond.
The course covers a vast range of cultures and time periods, meaning you’ll encounter a little bit of everything. And if you’re an international student, the global focus means you’re less likely to be bogged down by U.S.-specific content right away. Plus, it’s a great confidence booster, giving you a taste of what AP exams are like without the pressure of mastering detailed historical timelines of just one country.
Statistic: According to the College Board, AP World History often has one of the highest pass rates for international students, making it an ideal first course.
Why History is Important for STEM Students
Now, you might be thinking, “I’m going into STEM, why should I care about history?” Fair question. But here’s the deal: AP history courses provide skills that are crucial for success in any field, especially STEM.
Analyzing data: History is about examining events, trends, and outcomes. In STEM, you’ll need to analyze data, identify patterns, and draw conclusions—just like you would in a historical context.
Clear communication: Whether you’re a future doctor, engineer, or scientist, you’ll need to communicate your findings clearly. AP history courses will sharpen your writing skills, helping you present ideas clearly—whether it’s explaining a medical diagnosis or a complex engineering concept.
Problem-solving: History is full of complex, interconnected situations that require critical thinking. The ability to analyze a historical event and understand its causes and effects translates directly to solving technical problems.
When to Tackle U.S.-Centric AP Courses (AP U.S. History, U.S. Government)
Once you’ve gotten your feet wet with a broad, globally focused course like AP World History, you may want to take on more specialized subjects. This is where AP U.S. History and AP Government come in. These courses can be more challenging for international students because they focus specifically on the history and political systems of the United States. However, the skills you gain from these courses—like analyzing texts and understanding governance—are applicable to any field of study, and especially helpful if you’re planning to study or work in the U.S. in the future.
You don’t have to start here, but once you’re comfortable with the AP format, these courses can help you better understand the structure of modern governments, societies, and global influences.
Balancing AP Course Load: Don’t Overdo It
It’s tempting to dive headfirst into several AP courses at once, but slow and steady wins the race. Taking on too many AP courses, especially in your first year, can quickly lead to burnout. It’s better to start with one or two courses that you feel confident in and gradually increase your load as you get used to the pace and expectations.
A combination of AP World History and AP Human Geography is a good starting point for those interested in history and the social sciences. Both offer broad content and give you a solid introduction to AP-level study without overwhelming you.
Data Point: Studies show that students who take one or two AP courses their first year are more likely to succeed and less likely to feel overwhelmed compared to those who take on three or more at once.
AP Course Sequence: Building Towards More Challenging Courses
If you’re planning on sticking with history, consider this course sequence:
AP World History: Start here for a broad introduction to global events and historical analysis.
AP European History: This course offers a deeper dive into the development of Western civilization and complements what you learn in World History.
AP U.S. History: Once you’re ready, U.S. History will give you a focused look at American events, but with a global context.
AP Government & Politics: Finally, understanding how governments operate and how political systems affect our world is a valuable skill, no matter your future career path.
This sequence builds your skills step-by-step, allowing you to tackle increasingly complex topics as you progress.
Practical Application: Putting It All Together
Now that you know which courses to start with, it’s time to create a plan. Start by mapping out your AP journey based on your strengths and interests. If you’re more interested in humanities, start with history-focused courses. If you’re leaning toward STEM, don’t skip history—remember those critical thinking and communication skills will be useful in any career!
Challenges & Solutions:
Overwhelmed by choices? Stick to subjects that spark your interest and align with your strengths.
Worried about juggling coursework? Start with one or two AP courses and gradually increase your load.
Not sure how to balance AP with other commitments? Create a study schedule and stick to it—it’ll make life much easier.
Conclusion: Chart Your Path to Success
Picking your first AP course doesn’t have to be a guessing game. By choosing wisely—starting with a broad subject like AP World History—you can build the foundation you need for success. Whether you’re aiming for a career in history, law, STEM, or any other field, AP courses will give you the skills to thrive in college and beyond.
Ready to get started? Reach out to us for personalized advice on how to craft your perfect AP course plan!
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