As registration time rolls around, students of all ages are debating whether or not to take the dreaded AP classes.  All of the work they require sounds uninviting, but could they actually benefit you in the long run?  AP classes might seem intimidating, especially when taking your very first one, but they might be the most worthwhile classes you take in high school.

AP classes are college-level courses taken in high school that have a test at the end of the year if you choose to take it.  You have the possibility to receive college credit for the class if you earn a passing grade on the test.  Not only does taking the classes give you a chance to earn college credit, it also teaches you other valuable skills, such as time management and work ethic.

You are given a deadline to get work or extra credit turned in, and you are expected to get it turned in. This teaches responsibility that you couldn’t get in other classes.  The teachers know that this is an advanced-level class, so they don’t coddle you.  You are much more independent and this is a very beneficial skill to have for the future.

The majority of the kids that are in the class want to be there, meaning they’re willing to put in the work, outside of class if needed, that is necessary to succeed.  This allows for more teaching time in the classroom and more time for learning.

If you were in a college environment, you would be in a class with up to hundreds of students.  Taking a college credit class in high school would allow for better student-teacher interactions, and having a teacher that can actually put a name with a face, as opposed to many college classes, where the teacher just teaches, possibly not caring whether or not the students understand.

College classes are also expensive.  Taking an AP class costs nothing, and to take the AP test costs $93 per test, which is extremely cheap compared to actual college classes.

AP classes also benefit you in other classes.  On many AP tests, you are required to write an essay.  In the classes, you learn the process of writing essays, which not only applies in those classes, but other general classes as well. AP classes go in-depth about writing essays and give you multiple opportunities to practice writing them under time limits.

The multiple choice sections on AP tests are also timed, so it gives you practice on getting through tests in a timely manner, a skill that is needed on the ACT, PSAT, and other standardized tests that are required of high-schoolers.

AP classes give you a chance to challenge yourself and give you a different learning experience than what other classes can offer.  They might require more work than regular classes, but it better prepares you for the future.  They teach you how to use your time wisely and to prioritize to get your work finished.  The long nights of studying will seem tough, but your future self will thank you.