AP vs. Honors

Attribute	AP	Honors
Course Difficulty	Generally more difficult	Varies by school and program
College Credit	Possible college credit with passing exam score	May not offer college credit
Curriculum	Structured by College Board	Varies by school and program
Grading Scale	Weighted GPA scale	May or may not be weighted
Exam	Required AP exam at end of course	May or may not have a final exam

Course Content

Advanced Placement (AP) courses are designed to be college-level classes that cover a wide range of topics in depth. These courses often follow a standardized curriculum set by the College Board and culminate in a standardized exam that students can take for college credit. On the other hand, Honors courses are typically more rigorous versions of regular high school classes. They may cover similar material as AP courses, but in less depth and with fewer requirements. Honors courses often involve more critical thinking and analysis than regular classes, but may not be as comprehensive as AP courses.

Difficulty Level

AP courses are generally considered to be more challenging than Honors courses. This is because AP courses are designed to be equivalent to college-level classes, so they require a higher level of critical thinking, analysis, and time commitment. Students in AP courses are expected to engage with complex material, complete challenging assignments, and prepare for a rigorous exam at the end of the year. On the other hand, Honors courses are still more challenging than regular classes, but they may not require as much time and effort as AP courses. Students in Honors courses are often expected to demonstrate a deeper understanding of the material and engage in more advanced discussions, but they may not have as many assignments or exams as AP courses.

College Credit

One of the main benefits of taking AP courses is the opportunity to earn college credit. Many colleges and universities offer credit or advanced placement to students who score well on AP exams, which can save students time and money in college. On the other hand, Honors courses do not typically offer college credit, as they are not standardized or recognized by colleges in the same way as AP courses. However, some colleges may still take Honors courses into consideration when evaluating a student's application, as they demonstrate a willingness to challenge oneself and engage in more rigorous coursework.

Preparation for College

Both AP and Honors courses can help prepare students for the rigors of college-level coursework. AP courses in particular are designed to mimic the challenges of college classes, so students who excel in AP courses are likely to succeed in college. Additionally, the experience of taking AP exams can help students develop important study skills, time management techniques, and critical thinking abilities that are essential for success in college. On the other hand, Honors courses can also provide valuable preparation for college by challenging students to think critically, analyze complex material, and engage in advanced discussions. While Honors courses may not be as comprehensive or standardized as AP courses, they can still help students develop important skills and habits that will serve them well in college.

Teacher Qualifications

AP courses are typically taught by teachers who have undergone specialized training in the subject area and are familiar with the AP curriculum and exam. These teachers are often required to attend workshops and professional development sessions to ensure that they are prepared to teach the course effectively. On the other hand, Honors courses may be taught by any qualified teacher at the school, regardless of whether they have specific training in the subject area. While Honors teachers are still expected to challenge students and provide a rigorous academic experience, they may not have the same level of expertise or familiarity with the course material as AP teachers.

Student Motivation

One of the key differences between AP and Honors courses is the level of student motivation required to succeed. AP courses are typically taken by students who are highly motivated, academically inclined, and willing to put in the extra time and effort required to excel in a college-level class. These students are often looking to challenge themselves, earn college credit, and stand out on college applications. On the other hand, Honors courses may attract a wider range of students, including those who are looking for a more challenging academic experience but may not be as motivated or prepared for the demands of an AP course. While both AP and Honors courses can be beneficial for students, the level of motivation and commitment required to succeed may vary.