AP Programme: What Is It & How It Helps Students Get Into Their Choice Universities (Get $500 Off!)

Looking to give your teen a head start in university? Learn how the Advanced Placement (AP) Programme can set them up for academic success to thrive in university and beyond.

Applying to international universities can be highly competitive, and giving your child a strong academic foundation could be the key to standing out. If you’ve been wondering how to help your child stand out, the AP Programme might be just what they need! But what exactly is the AP Programme, and how does it compare to options like the IB?

We break down what the AP Programme is all about, and how International Community School’s (ICS) AP Programme equips students with the critical thinking, time management, and academic confidence they need to shine in competitive international applications.

Is the AP Programme a better fit for my child?

Got a teen excelling in certain subjects and eager to explore them further? The AP Programme offers the perfect opportunity! Students can choose courses that align with their interests and goals, challenging themselves while developing critical thinking skills. Students also get to earn college credits along the way, giving them a head start in their university journey while saving both time and money on their degree.

Although the courses in the AP Programme are more college-level compared to those in the IB Programme, the amount of credit awarded varies by university and course. On the other hand, students in the more holistic IB Programme are awarded credits for high scores in Higher Level (HL) exams, with the threshold often set at a score of 5 or higher. The AP Programme is subject-specific, allowing students to choose individual courses and earn credits based on the number of AP exams taken and their scores.

The AP Programme gives students more flexibility, allowing them to focus on subjects they’re interested in or need for specific university requirements, giving them a smoother transition into university life. Plus, AP courses are designed to match college-level content, pace, and exams, helping students prep for what’s ahead.

How the AP Programme at ICS sets students up for success

At ICS, students can choose from over 20 AP courses across STEM, business, humanities, and the arts. To keep students on track, teachers assign summer work to kickstart the year and use tools like the College Board’s AP Classroom, progress checks, and past exam questions. Regular feedback, small group sessions, and extra support during lunch or after school are also part of the well-rounded approach that ICS takes to ensure students stay ahead. At ICS, AP students have achieved an impressive average score of 4.2 out of 5, earning placements in top universities worldwide, including those in the U.S., U.K., Canada, Europe, and Australia!

Courses here challenge students to analyse, synthesise, and communicate complex ideas and then nurture them into independent learners and effective time managers. Some of the high-achieving courses at ICS, known for strong performance both in exam results and student engagement, include AP Psychology, AP Calculus, and AP English Literature. Students also receive personalised guidance from counsellors to help them choose the right courses that align with their academic goals.

Curious if ICS is the right fit for your child? Join their upcoming virtual open house to find out more!

Join ICS’s Virtual Open Houses to enjoy a $500 waiver on your application fee!

International Community School (ICS), 27a Jubilee Road, Singapore 128575, www.ics.edu.sg