If you’re interested in pursuing a career in science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM), AP courses are a smart way to accelerate that journey. AP courses offer students the opportunity to take college-level courses and earn college credit if they score well on the corresponding AP exam.
One of the most popular AP courses is AP Physics 1. This covers introductory topics in physics like mechanics, energy, and momentum. In this article, we’ll break down why doing well on the AP Physics 1 exam is a smart investment for your future.
Save Tuition
Taking AP Physics 1 and doing well on the exam can save you a lot on college tuition. According to a College Board report:
The average cost of tuition and fees at a four-year public university was $10,560 (per year) for in-state students and $27,020 for out-of-state students (2020-2021 academic year).
Scoring well on the exam can earn you college credit, which means you won’t have to pay for the equivalent course in college. Moreover, if you earn enough credit (from other APs) you can skip half a year or even a full year of college. You can graduate early and starting earning sooner! But more importantly, college credits can add up to thousands of dollars in savings over the course of your college journey.
Over the last 5 years I’ve have helped over 200 students score a 5 on their AP Physics 1 exam. This equates to ~$700,000 of saved college tuition.
Boost College Prospects
Scoring well on the AP Physics 1 exam can also boost your college prospects. College admissions officers look favorably upon students who have taken and done well in AP courses. In fact, some colleges require applicants to have taken a certain number of AP courses to be considered for admission. Additionally, scoring well on the AP Physics 1 exam can demonstrate to college admissions officers that you have a strong foundation in physics and are prepared for college-level coursework in STEM fields.
Real-World Impact
Beyond the financial and college admissions benefits, doing well on the AP Physics 1 exam can also have real-world impacts. Physics is a fundamental science that helps us understand the world around us, from the motion of objects to the behavior of light.
Physics has also led to countless technological innovations, from smartphones to medical imaging devices. By studying physics and doing well on the AP Physics 1 exam, you’ll be laying the foundation for a career in STEM and contributing to the advancement of science and technology.
Final thoughts
Doing well on the AP Physics 1 exam is a smart investment for your future. It can save you thousands of dollars on college tuition, boost your college prospects, and lay the foundation for a career in STEM. Beyond that, studying physics and doing well on the AP Physics 1 exam can have real-world impacts and contribute to the advancement of science and technology. So if you’re considering taking AP Physics 1, know that it’s not just a challenging course – it’s also a smart investment in your future.
