Advanced Placement (AP)
Advanced Placement (AP) courses are an opportunity for students to take college-level courses in high school. Taking AP courses provides the following opportunities:
- Earn College Credit and/or Placement
- Develop College Skills
- Discover Your Passion
We hope all students will consider taking an AP course over their four years at West Linn High School. It is our philosophy that no student be denied the opportunity to participate in any AP Course or Exam because of financial hardship. If you are interested in learning more about our AP courses, please visit our Academic Program Guide, speak to your school counselor, to a teacher, or to an administrator.
Students who choose an Advanced Placement course must be highly motivated, willing to do outside reading, research, writing and be able to undertake supplemental work on their own initiative. They must also make a commitment to the class for a full academic year.
Student must agree to the statements listed below:
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I understand that by requesting multiple AP courses, I am making a commitment to undertake a very rigorous academic schedule.
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I understand the commitment involved in taking college-level courses and acknowledge all that entails.
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By registering for AP courses I am making a commitment for the entire length of the courses.
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An undesired grade is NOT a valid reason for dropping the course.
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I understand my attendance will significantly impact my success in my AP course.
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I recognize it is my responsibility to communicate in writing a desire to opt out of the AP test prior to November 1st.
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I understand that West Linn High School advises a limited number of AP courses be taken.
AP Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
I don't attend WLHS. Can I take an AP test there?
It's our policy to only test WLHS students for AP exams. We have large testing numbers and limited space, and this allows us to keep the process as simple as possible for all those involved.
What is AP?
The College Board's AP Program offers college-level courses and exams that you can take in high school.
Do AP courses have prerequisites?
Some AP classes have recommended courses you should take first—check the specific course page for that information. Talk to your school counselor or a teacher to find out more.
How many AP classes can I forecast for?
West Linn High School recommends students only enroll in the number of AP courses they are academically prepared for. The strongly encouraged limits are: 1 or fewer during 9th grade, 2 or fewer during 10th grade, and 3 or fewer during the 11th and 12th grades.
Are AP courses weighted?
Yes, AP course grades are “weighted” on a 5-point scale rather than the standard 4-point scale. The additional point will be added to the cumulative GPA points.
What is the AP course workload?
AP classes can be challenging, but that doesn’t mean you’re not up to the task. If you’re willing to work hard and if you’re prepared academically, you should be able to succeed in an AP course.
When are the AP exams?
An exam schedule is set by the College Board beginning in May. Here is the link to the AP Calendar.
Can I test with accommodation?
Accommodations must be requested and approved through and by The College Board. It is recommended that families start the process as soon as possible. Click HERE for more information. Requests for accommodations need to be submitted through our WLHS counselors by Friday, November 21, 2025.
How do I register for the exam?
Students will register for AP Exams in the fall of each school year. It is a 2-step process and each part must be done for a completed registration: 1) Join the appropriate AP classroom(s) with the join code provided by the AP teacher 2) Pay the exam fees on My School Bucks or to the bookkeeper, OR turn in an Opt Out form if the student will not be participating in AP exams. Please watch the ROAR newsletter and ParentSquare for details, dates and deadlines.
How do I pay for the exam?
Students who are enrolled in AP courses, and who do not turn in an Opt Out form, will have their AP Exam fees uploaded to their My School Bucks accounts in mid-October. The fee for the 25-26 school year is $99 per exam or submission.
Can I take an AP exam if I'm not enrolled in the class?
Yes, AP exams may be taken without taking the course. If a student plans on taking an AP exam for a course they are not enrolled in at West Linn High School, email the WLHS AP Coordinator as soon as possible.
Can I take the AP exam for courses not offered at WLHS?
Yes, exams may be taken without taking the course. Contact the AP Coordinator as soon as possible.
How long are the AP exams?
The total time for administration of the exams varies from 3 to 4.5 hours. More details about exam locations and definitive report times will be provided during April. Students may not be dismissed until an exam has officially ended for all examinees. Afternoon exams end between 4:00 and 4:30 p.m. If a student plays a sport or has a job, it is their responsibility to inform their coach or employer of the AP obligation and arrangements should be made accordingly.
Where can I find out more about specific AP courses and tests?
Talk to the AP teacher or visit the College Board Website.
AP Resources
AP Art and Design Digital Submission
Submission for 2026 must be completed by Friday, May 8th at 4:59 PM Pacific Time.