What about AP exams?

I have not addressed AP exams at all on HC USA. Here in Florida, (and in at least some other states that I know of), the free online public school, FLORIDA VIRTUAL SCHOOL offers AP classes homeschoolers can take, so generally, I have pointed people I know in that direction if they have interest in using AP tests for credit.

That said, you may not live in a state that has this option, so here are some things you might like to know:

1. Yes, you can take an AP exam without taking an AP class, if you are a homeschooler. THE OFFICIAL AP WEBSITE says this: "If you are a homeschooled student or attend a school that doesn't offer AP, you can still participate. Each year hundreds of students participate through independent study. Some states even sponsor online AP courses." *

2. You may want to look over the AP EXAM LIST as there are some exams offered in courses that do not have equivalent CLEP/DSST exams.

3. Remember that with AP exams, unlike the other college-level exams, you only have a certain time during the year that you can take the tests. THIS CALENDAR shows the AP dates for 2011.

4. SPARK NOTES offers some AP Prep. Scroll down the screen for a list of tests.

5. If there is enough interest in self-studying for AP exams, I can look at putting together additional electives on HC USA to cover those tests that are different from the CLEPs, etc.

* This applies to homeschoolers. If you've already graduated high school, I do not believe you would be eligible to take an AP exam. I suppose you could contact the College Board and ask.