AP Programs Guide for Families | International Teaching Families

The Advanced Placement (or AP for short) Program is a college-level class available in some American international schools for high school students. They’re created by the College Board, which is the organisation that brings you the SAT exams.

Since its launch in 1952, the program has grown into a global standard of excellence. It gives millions of students around the world the chance to get a head start on college academics.

Front view of Samford Hall at Auburn University which recognises AP courses

How the AP Works

AP courses allow academically ready students to tackle college-level work while they’re still in high school and earn college credit and placement.

These courses are especially valuable for students looking for credentials that universities worldwide will recognise.

Offered in over seven subject categories, each AP course is modelled on an introductory college class. It culminates in a standardised AP Exam, administered globally each May.

International schools must be officially authorised to offer AP courses.

How Advanced Placement Courses Work

Course design: Teachers create their own syllabi based on College Board guidelines.
Exams: Developed and scored by experts, AP exams assess the knowledge and skills gained throughout the course.
Who can participate: Any academically prepared and willing student can take AP courses. International schools are encouraged to ensure there is broad and equitable participation from their student body.

How AP Exams Work

At the end of an AP course, students take an exam scored on a scale from 1-5:

5 = Extremely well qualified
4 = Well qualified
3 = Qualified
2 = Possibly qualified
1 = No recommendation

Many colleges award actual credit for scores of 3 or higher. The most selective universities might be looking for 4s or 5s, but a good score can mean you can skip some intro courses in college. Or you can even start with credits already on your transcript.

Benefits for International Students

Here are some of the main benefits for international students to consider undertaking this program:

University Recognition

AP scores are recognised by over 4,000 colleges and universities worldwide. Whether you’re applying to schools in the US, Europe, Asia, or beyond, undertaking this program can help to give you an edge.

Educational Consistency

For families who move around the world, the program provides consistency for their child’s education. A student can start AP Biology in Singapore and finish it in Dubai. They’ll follow the same (or very similar) curriculum and take the same exam. No more worrying about different education systems!

College Readiness

The jump from high school to college can be tough. These courses can help to bridge the gap by introducing college-level work in a more supportive environment.

These courses provide students with a globally portable credential that helps to show their readiness for university-level work.

Competitive Edge in Admissions

When admissions officers see these courses on your transcript, they know you’ve challenged yourself with tough classes. When you’re competing for a spot at top universities, this can be a big plus.

Finding AP Programs Internationally

Looking for schools that offer the Advanced Placement program? Here’s what to consider:

Course variety: The best international schools typically offer 15-25 AP courses across different subjects.
Success rates: Ask about exam pass rates and where graduates attend college.
Teacher quality: Great teachers make all the difference in AP courses, so ask about their experience and credentials.
Support systems: Does the school offer extra help, study sessions, or resources for students studying the program?

Here are some schools from different destinations that offer the program:

Seoul International School – South Korea
QSI International School of Shenzhen – China
Nibras International School – UAE
Khaled International Schools – Saudi Arabia
American School of Paris – France
International School of Brussels – Belgium
ES American School – Spain
American School Foundation – Mexico
American International School of Cape Town – South Africa
American International School of Abuja – Nigeria

The Future of AP Programs

As more and more international schools start to offer AP programs, they’re fast becoming the standard for students seeking challenging coursework that universities worldwide will recognise.

If you’re a parent researching options, these programs offer a great pathway to advanced learning with global recognition.

The Complete Guide to AP Programs: What Parents Need to Know