How can I do AP Independent Study?

Question

I cannot get into Advanced Placement (AP) at my school but I want to do it through Independent Study. However, I am VERY unsure how to go about doing this. What do I need to do EXACTLY? Would I go pick up an AP approved Psychology Textbook and just read through that? Could I take online classes? Are they free? I'm just totally confused in ten different directions. Please only answer my question if you have done AP IS. Thanks guys.

Answer 1

Technically you do not need to take any high school AP class to take the AP exam. Any high school student can sign up to take the exam pretty much (but it doesn't guarantee that you'll pass). Even if your school doesn't have any AP classes there is a good chance that they can give you information on taking the AP tests or provide you with additional details about taking any online classes. The availability of online AP courses vary with each state. This  site will provide you with some information on the online classes according to your state.

http://apguide.edutools.info/item_list.j...

But if you do decide to study alone, I suggest you get the outline of the course as well as buy an AP study book. I found in the past that different people preffer different AP study books but some popular ones are the Princeton Review, Kaplan and Cliffsnote. Before you buy it flip through the book to see if they have detailed explanations and not just one big paragraph. Also check to see they have an adequate amount of practice test questions and detailed explanations. Go on collegeboard for some information about the AP courses.

http://www.collegeboard.com/student/test...

But you must go and talk to your counselor about wanting to take the AP exam so that they can help you fill out the forms before taking the exam. They need to know the exact number of people taking it so that they can order the forms ahead of time. Also, go to the teacher who is teaching the regular class on the same subject. You and the teacher (most likely your own teacher) can work together to create some sort of outline for u to study throughout the year. I've known many people who did independent studies (including myself) in school and have known one person who studied at home. It depends on how well they know the subject also.

If you have any other question about the AP test leave a comment.