Pondering Over Advanced High School Courses? Here's What You Need to Consider

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In the pursuit of academic excellence, high school students in Washington State have several advanced curriculum options to choose from, each with its unique benefits and considerations. These options include the Advanced Placement (AP) program, the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, the Cambridge Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE), and the Running Start program.

The AP program, offered by College Board, is a college-level course available in high school. While there is no cost for taking an AP course, each test at the end of the school year costs approximately $100. AP courses may grant college credit or waive prerequisites, based on test scores.

The IB Diploma Programme, developed by the International Baccalaureate Organization, replaces a student's regular courses for the final two years of high school. It is generally considered the most rigorous program, with the highest workload.

The Cambridge AICE program, offered in six schools in Washington State (though the specific names are not provided), is an internationally recognized secondary school curriculum developed by Cambridge University in England. Universities worldwide treat the AICE Diploma as the equivalent to UK GCSE and AS and A Levels.

Running Start is a dual credit program that allows students in grades 11 and 12 to take college courses at Washington's 34 community and technical colleges. This program offers the most potential for earning college credits. Running Start students are only responsible for incidental costs and transportation - there is no tuition. However, it requires the most maturity from students due to managing transportation, a dual schedule, and the relative freedom to fail of college coursework.

Colleges value the difference between a full IB diploma and a partial one, rather than the specific high school track pursued. Each of these advanced curricula options signals to colleges that a student goes beyond baseline expectations in the pursuit of learning. College admissions boards assure prospective students that there's no penalty for lack of access to advanced curricula options.

For students planning to attend university abroad, especially in the UK, Cambridge (AICE in particular) and IB are better options.

The AICE Diploma program is known for its flexibility in course selection and its focus on the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The IB Diploma Programme meets all Washington state and district high school requirements, making it a comprehensive option for students aiming for both academic excellence and a well-rounded high school experience.

Performance is important in college admissions. A B in a Running Start class might be better than an A in a regular high school class, but a C is not. Each school will have its own grading system, and it's essential to understand the standards set by the colleges to which you're applying.

In conclusion, the choice between AP, IB, Cambridge, and Running Start depends on the student's interests, academic goals, and personal circumstances. It's crucial to research each program thoroughly and consult with guidance counsellors and educators to make an informed decision.