Popular AP Courses by Grade

Explore the most popular AP courses by grade level. Understand which AP classes are commonly taken by 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th graders to help plan your high school academic path.

Advanced Placement (AP) courses offer high school students the opportunity to engage in college-level coursework and potentially earn college credit. Understanding which AP courses are popular at each grade level can help students make informed decisions about their academic paths.

AP Courses for 9th and 10th Graders

Ninth and tenth graders typically begin with AP courses that introduce college-level material in a manageable way. Popular choices include:

  • AP Human Geography: Introduces students to population, culture, and urban development concepts.
  • AP World History: Covers global history from 1200 CE to the present.
  • AP European History: Focuses on European political, economic, and cultural developments.
  • AP Seminar: Develops research, analysis, and argumentation skills across interdisciplinary topics.
  • AP Computer Science Principles: Introduces fundamentals of computer science and programming.
  • AP World Language and Culture Courses: Focus on language skills and cultural understanding.

These courses provide a solid foundation for more advanced AP coursework in later years.

AP Courses for 11th Graders

Eleventh graders often take more challenging AP courses to prepare for college admissions. Popular options include:

  • AP English Language and Composition: Focuses on writing and rhetorical analysis.
  • AP United States History: Covers U.S. history from pre-Columbian times to the present.
  • AP Psychology: Introduces the scientific study of behavior and mental processes.
  • AP Biology: Explores principles of biology including genetics and cellular processes.
  • AP Physics 1: Covers fundamental physics concepts using algebra and trigonometry.
  • AP Seminar or AP Research: Develops independent research and inquiry skills.
  • AP Art and Design Courses: Explore various artistic techniques and mediums.

These courses challenge students and build skills for college-level coursework.

AP Courses for 12th Graders

Twelfth graders often select AP courses aligned with their intended college major or personal interests. Popular choices include:

  • AP English Literature and Composition: Focuses on literary analysis and interpretation.
  • AP United States Government and Politics: Studies the U.S. government and political systems.
  • AP Calculus AB or AP Statistics: Advanced mathematics courses preparing students for college math.
  • AP Psychology: Continues the exploration of psychological concepts and research.
  • AP Research: Conducts independent, in-depth research as part of the AP Capstone program.
  • AP Computer Science Principles or AP Computer Science A: Advanced courses in programming and computer science.
  • AP Art and Design Courses: Develops a portfolio and advanced artistic skills.

These courses help students specialize and prepare for college-level expectations.

Conclusion

Choosing AP courses strategically at each grade level enhances high school learning and college readiness. Consider your interests, strengths, and future goals when selecting AP courses, and seek guidance from teachers or counselors to optimize your academic plan.