Yes, you absolutely should. AP Scholar Awards are academic distinctions that students are encouraged to cite among their credentials on applications and résumés. Including this recognition highlights your commitment to academic rigor and your success in challenging coursework.
Why AP Scholar Awards Belong on Your Resume
The AP Scholar designation, awarded by the College Board, is a significant recognition of your achievement in Advanced Placement (AP) courses and exams. It signifies:
- Academic Excellence: It demonstrates your ability to excel in college-level curriculum while still in high school.
- Rigor and Drive: Earning this award showcases your willingness to challenge yourself with demanding coursework and your dedication to higher learning.
- Preparation for Higher Education: For college admissions, it signals that you are well-prepared for the academic demands of university life.
- Distinction: It sets you apart from other applicants, especially when applying for competitive programs or scholarships.
Who Benefits Most from Including AP Scholar?
While valuable for anyone who earns it, the AP Scholar award is particularly impactful for:
- High School Students: Crucial for college applications, showing strong academic performance and potential.
- Recent High School Graduates: Especially when applying for entry-level jobs, internships, or scholarships directly after high school, before a substantial college GPA or experience has been established.
- Early College Students: If you're a freshman or sophomore in college with limited university-level achievements, this award can still serve as a strong indicator of your academic foundation.
Where to List AP Scholar on Your Resume
The ideal placement for your AP Scholar award depends on the overall structure of your resume and your current academic standing.
| Section | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Education | This is often the most common and appropriate place for high school students or recent graduates. List it under your high school entry, especially if it's your primary educational background. | [Your High School Name] [City, State] |
| Awards & Honors | If you have a dedicated section for achievements, scholarships, or honors, the AP Scholar award fits perfectly here. This is a good option if you have multiple accolades to showcase and want to create a prominent section for your recognition. | Awards & Honors AP Scholar with Honor (2022) [Other Academic Awards or Scholarships] |
How to Phrase Your AP Scholar Achievement
Be precise when listing your AP Scholar award. Include the specific level of the award you received and the year you received it.
- Be Specific: Mention the exact title of your award.
- AP Scholar
- AP Scholar with Honor
- AP Scholar with Distinction
- AP National Scholar (if applicable)
- Include the Year: Always add the year you earned the award.
- Examples:
- AP Scholar with Distinction (2023)
- Recognized as AP Scholar (2022) for achieving scores of 3 or higher on three or more AP Exams.
Adding your AP Scholar award to your resume effectively communicates your strong academic foundation and readiness for future challenges, making it a valuable addition to your professional profile.
