Are You Going to Take the AP Exam?

With the crunch of the economic downfall, the state of Georgia had to make several budget cutbacks. Among the many budgets affected the Advanced Placement (AP) testing price rebate have been removed from the budget and has become the responsibility of Georgia students. Instead of paying the discounted price of $8 for an AP subject test, Georgia students now have to pay the full price of $86. This news hits hard to many families across Georgia who are affected with the economic crisis. This matter is causing many to become unsure of the hopes of taking the exam and receiving well-deserved college credit.

At Creekview, AP teachers are encouraging their students to take the tests that, in the long run, will save students hours of college courses and tuition money. AP United States Government and Politics teacher, Stan Hunsucker, stated, “Though it will be hard for students to find money in this recession, students will be more dedicated and serious about the subject causing scores to go up.”

With the high testing scores exhibited by the students at Creekview, it is no shocker that many of our bright students are taking multiple AP courses. On among our numerous variety of esteemed students, William Burke (12) is taking five AP courses (Biology, Physics, United States Government and Politics, and English Literature) and is working rigorously in those classes. He knows that the classes will save him thousands of dollars in tuition and class time. Because of the big amount of money that Burke will have to pay for his numerous AP courses, he said, “my parents and I are splitting [the cost]. With this new rule, I am more motivated to make the very best on the exam.”

Despite the financial downside, many of the AP teachers have found positivity due to the fact that many of the scores will possibly increase and more devotion might be presented in their classes. The AP scores range from a 1-5 scale, with 5 being the highest grade and 3 being the starting passing mark.

The cost for each Advanced Placement exam is $86 and will be given by the College Board. Testing will take place starting in early May 2011.

By: Beatrice Torralba