Best AP Class to Learn On Your Own

When it comes to preparing for college applications, AP (Advanced Placement) classes can provide a significant edge. But what if your high school doesn’t offer a specific AP class, or you want to take on the challenge independently? Self-studying for an AP exam can be a great way to demonstrate initiative, self-discipline, and intellectual curiosity—all qualities that colleges value.

But here’s the big question: which AP class is the best to learn on your own?

In this article, we’ll explore the AP classes that are most suitable for self-study, tips for tackling them, and how to use this opportunity to enhance your college application.

Why Self-Studying for an AP Exam is Worth It

First, let’s consider why you might want to self-study an AP class.

Many students take on this challenge because:

• Limited Offerings at School: Not all schools offer every AP course, which can limit your opportunities to explore certain subjects.
• Flexibility: Self-studying allows you to learn at your own pace, on your individual schedule.
• College Credit: Passing an AP exam can earn you college credit, saving time and money down the line.
• Personal Interest: Maybe you have a passion for a subject that’s not part of your school’s curriculum.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an AP Class for Self-Study

Not all AP classes are created equal when it comes to independent learning. Some courses are more content-heavy or require hands-on experiments, making them harder to master on your own. These classes, due to their complexity and/or hands-on requirements, are better suited for classroom learning.

Before diving in, consider these factors:

1. Subject Matter: Is it a topic you’re genuinely interested in? Motivation plays a huge role in successful self-study.
2. Complexity: Some AP classes, like Chemistry, Physics C, or Calculus BC, require a strong foundation in advanced math as well as lab activities.
3. Resources Available: Are there quality textbooks, online courses, or study guides for the subject? It may be difficult to self-study for certain courses unless you have access to specific resources like lab equipment or experienced, specialized mentors.
4. Exam Format: Understanding whether the exam relies heavily on essays, multiple-choice questions, or hands-on projects is essential. On the other hand, AP Studio Art involves portfolio creation. Will you have the materials necessary to create and submit a physical portfolio, when the time comes? All these considerations matter.

The Best AP Classes to Learn on Your Own?

Now, let’s get down to the nuts and bolts.

1. AP Psychology

Why It’s Great for Self-Study:

• The content is straightforward and often overlaps with general knowledge or real-life applications.
• Plenty of free online resources, including videos, practice exams, and study guides.

Study Tips:

• Use a comprehensive textbook like “Myers’ Psychology for AP.”
• Watch online video lectures from platforms like YouTube or Khan Academy.
• Practice with past exam questions to familiarize yourself with the test’s format.

2. AP Environmental Science (APES)

Why It’s Great for Self-Study:

• The subject is broad but not deeply technical, making it more accessible to most students.
• It covers current, relatable topics like climate change, pollution, and sustainability.

Study Tips:

• Combine a textbook like “Living in the Environment” with free online resources.
• Take practice tests to identify weak areas.
• Watch documentaries or read articles to deepen your understanding of real-world applications.

3. AP Human Geography

Why It’s Great for Self-Study:

• The course emphasizes concepts over rote memorization, making it easier to grasp independently.
• The exam’s multiple-choice and free-response questions are straightforward.

Study Tips:

• Use study materials like “The Cultural Landscape: An Introduction to Human Geography.”
• Practice map-reading skills and familiarize yourself with geographic terminology.
• Supplement your learning with online videos and practice exams.

4. AP Microeconomics

Why It’s Great for Self-Study:

• The content is logical and structured, focusing on concepts like supply and demand, market structures, and consumer behavior.
• Many high-quality resources are available online.

Study Tips:

• Utilize resources like Khan Academy for video tutorials and practice problems.
• Work through practice exams to master graphing and problem-solving skills.
• Stay consistent by reviewing concepts regularly.

5. AP English Language and Composition

Why It’s Great for Self-Study:

• If you’re already a strong reader and writer, this course can be a natural extension of your skills.
• Focuses on analysis and argumentation, which can be practiced through self-guided reading and writing.

Study Tips:

• Read a variety of non-fiction texts, including essays, speeches, and articles.
• Practice analyzing rhetorical strategies and writing your own essays.
• Use AP-style prompts and time yourself during practice sessions.

How to Approach Self-Studying

1. Create Your Dream Desk

Carve out—or create—a dedicated, distraction-free study space where you can maintain focus while you work on your independent studies. Think about the details: what kind of timer will you use to stay on task and measure your breaks? A physical or digital timer is a key part of the Pomodoro technique. What kind of rewards will you use for accomplishments? Be sure to reward yourself for completing significant portions of the syllabus or practice tests, so your learning environment is also fun.

2. Set a Schedule

Work with a realistic timeline that breaks down every section of the material into manageable sections. Allocate time for review and practice tests. As you work, set small, achievable goals to track your progress, and be sure to celebrate milestones along the way!

3. Gather Resources

Invest in a high-quality textbook, and supplement with online videos, flashcards, and review books like those from Barron’s or Princeton Review. 

Looking for the best digital options? We’ve got you covered! Platforms like Quizlet are great for flashcards, Anki for spaced repetition, and Notion for organizing your study schedule are a great start. YouTube channels like CrashCourse and Khan Academy can provide you with helpful video explanations.

4. Take Practice Tests

Regularly assess your understanding by taking full-length practice exams. This will help you identify weak areas and improve your test-taking stamina.

5. Join Online Communities

Participate in forums or study groups, such as those on Reddit or Discord. These communities can offer support, resources, and motivation. There are even dedicated apps like AP Classroom or Albert.io that you can leverage for AP-specific practice questions.

Advice from a College Counselor

From a college counselor’s perspective, self-studying an AP class can be a powerful addition to your academic portfolio. It’s not just about the score you achieve on the exam—it’s also about the skills and attributes you demonstrate along the way. 

Here are some insights to keep in mind:

• Highlight Your Efforts: Use your college application essays to talk about why you chose to self-study and what the experience taught you. Admissions officers value stories that showcase resilience, problem-solving, and intellectual curiosity.
• Balance Your Commitments: While self-studying shows initiative, overloading yourself with too many responsibilities can backfire. Prioritize your time and ensure that self-study doesn’t compromise your performance in other areas, such as schoolwork or extracurriculars.
• Seek Support When Needed: Even if you’re studying independently, don’t hesitate to ask for guidance from teachers, mentors, or peers. Collaboration can help clarify challenging concepts and keep you motivated.
• Plan for Success: Colleges understand the difficulty of self-studying, so a strong score on the AP exam will speak volumes about your dedication. Focus on consistent preparation, and don’t wait until the last minute to cram.

Ready to get started with something tangible? 

Create a weekly planner that accounts for schoolwork, extracurriculars, and self-study. Incorporate rest and recreational activities, too—and don’t skimp. Without them, you risk burning out entirely.

Leveraging Your Self-Study Experience for College Applications

Successfully self-studying for an AP exam demonstrates key qualities that colleges look for:

• Initiative: Taking the lead on your education shows drive and independence.
• Time Management: Balancing self-study with other commitments highlights strong organizational skills.
• Subject Mastery: Excelling in a self-studied AP exam proves your academic capability and intellectual curiosity.

Be sure to mention your self-study experience in your college essays or interviews, emphasizing what you learned and how it shaped your academic goals.

Avoid These Top Self-Study Pitfalls!

As you get ready for the big day, here are some final details you should be cautious of:

• Underestimating the time required to master the whole course’s content.
• Starting too late and trying to cram.
• Relying on a single source of information without diversifying your materials.
• Skipping practice tests, which are crucial for understanding exam format and time management.

Luckily, none of these things have to happen to you. Not only that, you’ll be extra prepared and remember to pack any necessary items like calculators (depending on the type allowed), number two pencils, and your admission ticket. 

Still worried about your exam? You can always schedule a mock exam date to simulate the whole testing experience and reduce your anxiety The day before, lightly review your materials and ensure you get a good night’s rest.

Final Thoughts: AP and You

Self-studying for an AP exam is no small feat, but with the right mindset and resources, it’s an achievable goal that can set you apart in the college admissions process. Whether you’re drawn to the social sciences, environmental studies, or even language arts, choosing the right AP class to learn on your own can open doors to new academic opportunities.

Ready to get started? At Empowerly, we’re here to help you navigate your AP journey and beyond. Schedule a consultation today to learn how we can support your college preparation efforts!