Recently, students at Westerville North High School have been asking themselves this exact question as scheduling for next school year is finalized. The decision of whether to take CCP (College Credit Plus) or AP (Advanced Placement) classes is especially important for juniors and seniors whether they plan to go to college or not.
CCP allows high school students to attend their local college which is similar to a community college class, but while still in high school. These classes provide college credits and, in most cases, are free since they’re paid for by the state.
On the other hand, AP classes allow students t o take advanced level high school courses that also offer college credits depending on exam performance.
Both options seem appealing because they help students earn college credits early. However, there’s more to consider sinceSin, according to the Ohio School Board Association (OSBA), both CCP and AP classes are not your average high school courses. They require deeper knowledge and preparation. They offer students a head start on college coursework and help strengthen transcripts for college applications.
Students who take CCP have the advantage that they don’t have to pay for their expenses, which saves both time and money. That makes CCP an attractive option, especially since college tuition is already a major concern for many students.
However, CCP does come with its limitations. For one, OSBA says that CCP credits are typically only recognized by public in-state colleges. But If you plan to attend a private or out of state university, you might find that CCP credits are not accepted at colleges. Additionally, if a student fails to earn at least a C or above in a CCP course, they may have to pay back the tuition, which is charged $100 per semester rather than the school year.
AP, on the other hand, offers some benefits that CCP does not. AP credits are more widely accepted by universities across the country, including private and out of state schools. But students should consider two factors before joining: AP requires more labor to keep the pace than a regular high school class and having a deeper understanding of content. In addition, it requires students to pay $99 per exam but if you decide to not take the exam on the date you are supposed to take, the charge is $40 instead of full exam fees. However, you have to pass the course exam with a score 3-5 to represent a mastery level and earn college credit.
Ultimately, for those who want to get ahead without the pressure of intense exams, I personally think that CCP is the better option. Unlike AP classes, where everything depends on one final test, CCP allows students to earn guaranteed college credits simply by passing the course. This makes it much less stressful, especially for those who may not perform well, like myself, under the pressure of a single exam.
Additionally, since these courses are paid for by the state, families can save thousands of dollars on tuition. Another benefit is that CCP classes often have fewer assignments and less daily homework compared to AP courses, making them a better choice for students who want to challenge themselves without being overwhelmed by excessive workloads.
While AP courses may be a good option for students aiming for high level universities, CCP provides a more accessible and practical way to earn college credits without unnecessary stress. For students looking for a smart and efficient way to get ahead, CCP is the better choice
The amount of student that have enrolled AP and CCP
classes for the past two years 2023 – 2025
