If you’re a high school student who’s interested in history, you might have heard about the Advanced Placement (AP) World History exam. It’s an exam that tests your knowledge of world history from prehistoric times to present-day.
But is it worth taking? Here are some things to consider before making that decision.
What is the AP World History Exam?
The AP World History Exam is a standardized test administered by the College Board. It’s designed to assess your understanding of world history and your ability to analyze historical documents and write essays. The exam covers six major periods of world history, from the Paleolithic era to contemporary times.
Why Take the AP World History Exam?
There are several reasons why you might want to take the AP World History Exam:
College Credit
Scoring well on the exam can earn you college credit at many colleges and universities. This can save you time and money in college by allowing you to skip introductory-level courses.
College Admissions
Taking challenging courses like AP World History can impress college admissions officers. It shows that you’re willing to take on difficult coursework and challenge yourself academically.
Personal Growth
Studying world history can broaden your understanding of other cultures and societies, making you a more informed global citizen.
Things to Consider Before Taking the Exam
While there are benefits to taking the AP World History Exam, it’s not for everyone. Here are some things to consider before signing up:
The Level of Difficulty
The AP World History Exam is considered one of the most challenging AP exams due to its extensive scope and depth of content. You’ll need strong analytical skills, critical thinking abilities, and excellent writing skills to succeed on this exam.
The Time Commitment
Preparing for the AP World History Exam requires a significant time commitment. You’ll need to read and analyze historical documents, write essays, and memorize a vast amount of information. If you’re already taking several other AP courses or have extracurricular commitments, it may not be feasible to add another rigorous course to your schedule.
The Cost
Taking the AP World History Exam isn’t free. There’s a registration fee that varies by location. Additionally, if you’re taking the exam at a testing center that’s far from your school or home, you’ll need to factor in travel expenses.
Final Thoughts
Deciding whether or not to take the AP World History Exam is a personal choice that depends on your goals and abilities. If you’re willing to put in the time and effort required to prepare for this challenging exam, it can be a rewarding experience that leads to college credit and personal growth.
However, if you’re already feeling overwhelmed with coursework or don’t have a strong interest in world history, it may not be the best fit for you. Ultimately, consider all of these factors carefully before making your decision.