Yes, it is highly advisable to include AP Scholar awards on your college application. These distinctions are important because they effectively showcase your commitment to undertaking rigorous coursework and achieving academic excellence within those challenging subjects.
Why AP Scholar Awards Matter for College Applications
Listing your AP Scholar awards can significantly strengthen your college application by providing tangible evidence of your academic capabilities and drive.
Demonstrating Academic Rigor
Colleges look for students who challenge themselves academically. Earning an AP Scholar award indicates that you've not only taken multiple Advanced Placement courses but have also performed well on the corresponding exams. This signals to admissions committees that you are ready for college-level work and can succeed in a demanding academic environment. It highlights your willingness to engage with challenging material beyond the standard curriculum.
Highlighting Achievement and Dedication
AP Scholar awards are an official recognition from the College Board of your outstanding performance across several AP exams. This demonstrates your consistent dedication to your studies and your ability to excel in a variety of subjects. It sets you apart from students who may have only taken a few AP courses or achieved lower scores. It showcases your commitment to learning and excelling in areas you are passionate about.
Standing Out Among Applicants
While many applicants take AP courses, fewer achieve the distinction of an AP Scholar award. Including this honor on your application can help differentiate you from other candidates, especially if you're applying to selective institutions. It provides an objective measure of your academic success that supplements your GPA and transcript.
Understanding AP Scholar Award Levels
There are several levels of AP Scholar awards, each based on a specific set of criteria related to the number of AP Exams taken and the scores received. It's important to know which award you've earned as you'll typically list the highest one.
| Award Level | Criteria (Brief) |
|---|---|
| AP Scholar | Granted to students who receive scores of 3 or higher on three or more AP Exams. |
| AP Scholar with Honor | Granted to students who receive an 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. |
| AP Scholar with Distinction | Granted to students who receive an 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. |
| National AP Scholar | Granted to students in the United States who receive an average score of at least 4 on all AP Exams taken, AND scores of 4 or higher on five or more of these exams. |
Where to Include AP Scholar Awards on Your Application
The placement of your AP Scholar award on your college application is crucial for ensuring admissions officers notice it.
Awards and Honors Section
Most college applications, such as the Common Application or Coalition App, include a dedicated "Awards" or "Honors" section. This is the primary place where you should list your AP Scholar award.
- Common App: Under the "Education" section, you'll find "Honors." You can list up to five academic distinctions here.
- Coalition App: Similar sections allow you to add academic achievements.
When listing, state the specific award name (e.g., "AP Scholar with Distinction"), the year it was awarded, and potentially a brief description if the platform allows and space permits (e.g., "Awarded for achieving an average score of 3.5 or higher on 5+ AP Exams").
Additional Information Section
If you've received numerous awards and the dedicated section limits how many you can list, or if you want to provide more context, the "Additional Information" section can be an alternative. However, it's generally best to prioritize the "Awards and Honors" section for these academic distinctions.
Tips for Listing Your Awards Effectively
To maximize the impact of your AP Scholar award, consider these practical tips:
- List Your Highest Award: If you've earned multiple levels of AP Scholar, only list the highest distinction you've achieved (e.g., if you are an AP Scholar with Distinction, you don't need to also list AP Scholar).
- Be Specific: Always use the full and accurate name of the award (e.g., "AP Scholar with Honor," not just "AP Scholar").
- Indicate the Year: Specify the academic year you received the award. Most students receive these awards after their junior year.
- No Self-Promotion Necessary: The award itself is prestigious; you don't need to write lengthy explanations of its significance. Let the award speak for itself.
- Verify Your Awards: Ensure you accurately represent the award you've earned by checking your official AP score report on the College Board website.
By thoughtfully including your AP Scholar awards, you reinforce your strong academic profile and demonstrate your commitment to academic excellence, making a compelling case for your admission.
