AP Courses and Tests
This post is part of a series titled, “Homeschool Q&A.” The series features questions we’ve received from parents on a variety of topics–and the answers!
Q. Does a high school student have to take an AP course before taking an AP exam?
A. No, the College Board does not require a student to take an Advanced Placement (AP) course before taking an AP exam. However, studies have shown that a higher number of students pass the exam if they have taken a year-long AP course than if they self-studied for the exam. AP courses and exams correspond to the most commonly offered college and university courses. The material is based on course content taught at top universities and is considered more academically challenging than community college coursework.
Arrangements for AP (Advanced Placement) tests should be made no later than March 1 by contacting a local high school or a private school. This gives the high school time to order the appropriate AP test prior to the nationwide testing date in May of each year.
You may request any AP test, even if the school does not offer the AP course. Due in part to HEAV’s efforts, Virginia law (§22.1-254.1(F)) requires all school districts to make Advanced Placement (AP) and Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT) examinations available to homeschooled students. The fee for each AP exam is approximately $87, and payment is made to the school administering the test, not to the College Board.
A student can repeat the exam the following year. However, both scores will be reported unless the student requests that one score be canceled.
NOTE: Since 2007-2008, the “AP” designation has been trademarked by the College Board and cannot be used on a transcript unless the student has taken a course approved by the College Board or has passed the AP test. More information and a list of AP courses can be found on the College Board website; for further transcript information, please see HEAV’s Transcript Q&A and transcript service.
For more information about high school courses and transcripts, join us for our October 6, 2011, High School at Home: You Can Do It! seminar in Richmond.
Blog @ September 28, 2011 | Homeschool Q&A | Comments (1)
Convention 2011: Enjoy the Pictures!
Thanks to Seth Fisher (Through My Lens Photography) and Philippe Monk (HEAV/Living Story Photography), we have some wonderful pictures of the 2011 Virginia Homeschool Convention to share with you! We hope they bring back lots of memories, and that the inspiration and encouragement you received at the convention is carrying on into your new school year.
Enjoy the photos, and remember this year’s theme: you can do all things through Christ, who strengthens you (Philippians 4:13)!
Blog @ September 25, 2011 | Convention, Events | Comments (1)
Ages for Field Trips
This post is part of a series titled, “Homeschool Q&A.” The series features questions we’ve received from parents on a variety of topics–and the answers!
Q. I’m new to homeschooling and am looking for activities for my high school student. What is the age range for the field trips HEAV sponsors?
A. HEAV-sponsored field trips are designed for ALL homeschooling families and are great for students of all ages. Lots of times dads even take off from work to come with their families. The field trips can be a great way to meet other homeschoolers.
We work toward scheduling a variety of field trips in different areas of the state. Destinations have included a science museum, various historical sites, a nautical museum, an art museum, an aquarium, the State Fair of Virginia, an amusement park, and many other locations. The field trips often include special educational programs for different age groups, but the site staff expects parents and siblings to attend together.
If you would like to attend, simply register as indicated for each event. HEAV sets up the field trips and negotiates for the best educational discount we can get for you—some events are even FREE!
Look for information about upcoming events in our weekly Virginia Homeschool Update. You can always go to www.heav.org and click on “Events” to see a schedule any time you’re ready to plan a fun day. We would love to have you join us!
Yvonne Bunn @ September 20, 2011 | Homeschool Q&A | Comments (0)
Electives on a Transcript
This post is part of a series titled, “Homeschool Q&A.” The series features questions we’ve received from parents on a variety of topics–and the answers!
Q. My daughter takes piano lessons and is starting ninth grade this year. Do piano lessons count toward an elective?
A. Yes, piano lessons can count as a music elective. Other special interests or activities, such as dance, drama, art, sports, photography, sewing, computer repair, part-time jobs, driver’s education, volunteer work, and community service, etc., can also be included on your transcript as electives. You can decide to give a full credit or 1/2 credit for an elective based on the hours of work. A full credit is usually given for 120 to 150 hours of time spent on the activity.
NOTE: For more information about homeschooling during the high school years, including creating a transcript, please join us for a special high school Success Seminar at the HEAV office on October 6: High School at Home: Yes, You Can Do It!
The HEAV website also offers a transcript service that computes the points and GPA and helps you create a professional-looking transcript. Be sure to check out the transcript Q&A, which is packed with information!
Yvonne Bunn @ September 7, 2011 | Homeschool Q&A | Comments (0)