On Monday, May 5, the AP exams started. The AP exam is an optional test that students take at the end of the school year.

It is a rigorous test that challenges students on what hey learned in their AP class. If students get a good score, they might be able to drop some general education classes in college, if the college accepts AP test scores.

Early in the school year, counselors will come in to the AP classes and will give information about the AP exam if students are interested.

Students must pay a fee of $89. Students must pay this fee to the counselors after spring break on March 28. If students are unable to make that deadline, there are two other dates for fees to be due. The first late deadline is April 11. The final deadline is April 18. If students are late in paying their fees, they must pay an additional late fee.

Courses that have AP testing include Chemistry, Calculus, English Language and Composition, English Literature and Composition, Biology, U.S. Government and Politics and U.S. History.

Some seniors, such as Madeline Miley and Adam Withers, have opted to take more than one AP exam. Fortunately, they will not have to take more than one test in the same day.

Senior Madeline Miley has mixed feelings about the exam.

“I’m kind of stressing out about studying for the exam,” Miley said. “But I’m kind of excited about taking the test for college credit.”

Counselor Melody Hoffsommer has valuable advice for people taking exams.

“Study hard and be prepared that way,” Hoffsommer said. “I always say get a good nights sleep, eat a good breakfast, get there early and have pencils and calculators ready. Cramming doesn’t always work.”

Counselor Autumn Weiss also had advice.

“Study on the website and get a good look at it,” Weiss said. “Talk to the AP teacher about what to focus on. A good attitude also goes a long way.”