Students Feel Pressure from AP Tests

Checking Aeris Portal, which is the site students use to check their grades, and calculate the scores needed to maintain that A grade. Fast-paced curriculum, huge amounts of work, and the difficulty of this curriculum challenges students during the school year: Advanced Placement (AP) classes. AP students were stressed-out as they prepared for AP tests, which began May 1.

Since AP examinations are only held once a year compared to SAT, ACT, or SAT II tests, which can be taken multiple times, AP students were more anxious. Especially, juniors are more concerned as this is their last chance to take their AP tests to add in their college applications.

According to the Huffington Post Education, in highly selective college admissions– including in Ivy League admissions–excelling in AP courses is par for the course. Due to the tests’ increased importance, students feel pressured to get a 4 or 5.

“When I was a junior, I felt so much pressure from AP tests, as I did not get satisfying scores like a 5. For example, even though I tried three other resource books for AP Chemistry, I actually felt that the exam was really hard,” Gina Choi, senior at Brea Olinda High, said. “I’ve heard that someone tried 17 different practice tests and ended up getting a 5 on the AP test.”

Emphasizing the importance of trying various practice tests under conditions similar to real tests, Choi also highlighted the importance of keeping a positive mindset. A positive mindset releases a chemical called endorphin, which encourages the active movement of the brain.

“I know how stressful it is when it comes to taking tests, but it is important to keep a positive mindset. Worrying too much will not do anything for your scores. Instead, you should believe that you could do well. I could get several 5’s on the test because I had a comfortable, positive mindset,” Choi told JSR.

According to the National Association for College Admission Counseling, AP tests on average account for 6.9 percent of colleges’ admission decisions.

“Don’t push yourself too hard because there are many other factors considered, such as your GPA, SAT II, extracurricular activities, etc. Just try your best and you are good,” Choi concluded.

Just remember, this is a great opportunity for students to demonstrate their strengths, and how well they are prepared for colleges.