Absolutely, you should report an AP Scholar Award on the Common App! Including this recognition is a valuable way to showcase your academic strengths and commitment to rigorous coursework, which are qualities highly sought after by colleges. It is not considered "fluff"; rather, it is a significant indicator of your academic prowess.
Why AP Scholar Awards Matter
Colleges view AP Scholar Awards as concrete evidence of your ability to excel in challenging academic environments. These awards demonstrate:
- Academic Rigor: They highlight your willingness and capacity to take and succeed in advanced placement courses, which are college-level classes.
- Commitment to Learning: Earning an AP Scholar Award signals dedication to intellectual growth and a strong work ethic.
- Preparedness for College: Success in AP courses suggests you are well-prepared for the academic demands of higher education.
These recognitions go beyond just good grades; they provide an external validation of your strong performance across multiple challenging subjects.
Where to List Your AP Scholar Award
On the Common App, you can typically report your AP Scholar Award in the "Honors" section. This section is specifically designed for academic distinctions and awards.
Here's how to effectively list it:
- Navigate to the "Honors" Section: This is usually found within the "Academics" or "Activities" section of the Common App.
- Select the Appropriate Level: Specify if it's a school, state, national, or international award. AP Scholar Awards are generally considered "National" awards.
- Provide a Clear Description: While the award name itself is informative, you can add a brief description of what it entails, especially if you have space. For example: "Awarded for achieving an average score of 3.0 or higher on three or more AP Exams."
- Mention the Specific Level: If you received "AP Scholar with Distinction," "AP Scholar with Honor," or another specific level, make sure to state that clearly.
Understanding AP Scholar Award Levels
The College Board recognizes several levels of AP Scholar Awards, each signifying a different level of achievement based on the number of AP Exams taken and the scores achieved.
| Award Level | Criteria | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| AP Scholar | Scores of 3 or higher on three or more AP Exams. | Demonstrates solid performance across multiple subjects. |
| AP Scholar with Honor | Average score of at least 3.25 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams. | Indicates strong performance and consistency in advanced coursework. |
| AP Scholar with Distinction | Average score of at least 3.5 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on five or more of these exams. | Highlights exceptional achievement and mastery in numerous AP subjects. |
| National AP Scholar | Average score of at least 4 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 4 or higher on five or more of these exams. | Recognizes outstanding achievement at a national level. |
| AP International Diploma | (Specific criteria for international students) | A globally recognized academic credential. |
Even the base "AP Scholar" award is a valuable addition to your application, indicating your engagement with rigorous coursework.
Tips for Listing Awards on the Common App
- Be Specific: Always include the exact name of the award and the year you received it.
- Prioritize: If you have many awards, prioritize those that are most significant or best highlight your academic strengths. AP Scholar Awards are generally considered high-priority academic honors.
- Concise Descriptions: Use the limited character count wisely to convey the essence of the award and its criteria if necessary.
- Review for Accuracy: Double-check all information before submitting your application.
By accurately reporting your AP Scholar Award, you provide colleges with clear evidence of your academic achievements and your readiness for the challenges of higher education.
