AP, or Advanced Placement, courses are courses designed by the College Board to mimic the rigor, material, and intensity of a college level course.  While not an exact replica of a college level course, the course is intended to be of equal rigor and level of difficulty.  A great deal of work will be expected including outside reading and homework, which makes an AP course time intensive.  Prior to signing up for an AP course, students and families should consider preparedness for the material, maturity, ability to work independently, other responsibilities, school and community involvements,  and overall difficulty of course selections. Signing up for an AP course is a full year commitment and schedule changes are generally not allowed.  Summer assignments are required for several AP courses.