Schools Implementing the International Cultural Exchange Program

INTERNATIONAL CULTURAL
EXCHANGE PROGRAM

ASSOCIATION OF
SCHOOLS OFFERING
INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS

WHAT IS AP (ADVANCED PLACEMENT)?

Advanced Placement (AP) is a program originally developed in the United States and now recognized and implemented in over 60 countries worldwide. Although only a limited number of schools in Türkiye, including American schools, offer the program, AP is regarded as one of the most prestigious international academic programs. First launched in 1955, the program is administered by the College Board, the same institution responsible for the SAT exams.

Also known as the Advanced Placement Program, AP is a rigorous, comprehensive curriculum designed for students who aspire to academic excellence. The program currently offers 38 different subjects across 6 academic disciplines.

Benefits of the AP Program

Admission to International Universities: High AP exam scores significantly enhance a student’s chance of gaining admission to leading universities abroad.
University Credit Recognition: Students can earn university credits while still in high school, which may be accepted by international institutions and some private universities in Türkiye, depending on institutional policy.
Academic Depth: Students explore subjects of personal interest at a much deeper and more advanced level.
Skill Development: The program fosters essential academic skills, including study habits, academic writing, and problem-solving—critical for success in higher education.

Validity of the AP Program

Approximately 3,300 universities around the world review and accept AP exam results each year. AP score requirements vary depending on the policies of each university—some accept a score of 3 as passing, while others may require a 4 or 5. Some private universities in Türkiye also offer opportunities to students based on their AP results.

AP Exam Structure and Process

The content of AP exams is developed by committees consisting of university professors and experienced AP high school teachers. Each exam typically consists of two sections: multiple-choice questions and free-response questions (short answers or essays). The duration and format vary depending on the subject.

AP exams are held once a year in May. Students may sit for one or more AP exams and can also retake exams in subsequent years if desired.

Multiple-choice sections are scored by computer, while written responses are evaluated by qualified AP teachers and university faculty. The final AP exam score is a composite of both sections and is graded on a scale of 1 to 5. Students who take at least three AP exams and score a minimum of 3 on each are awarded the AP Scholar distinction. Exam results are sent to students in July, with cumulative reports that include all AP scores obtained to date.

AP International Diploma (APID)

The AP program offers a course-based certification, and students may qualify for the AP International Diploma (APID) by completing at least five AP exams across four distinct subject areas, earning scores of 3 or higher in each.

For more information about the Association of Schools Offering International Programs, please visit the association's official page.

Sample Subject Areas and Exam Combinations

Subject Category	Example Exams
Two different World Language & Culture exams, or one World Language & Culture plus one English exam	AP French Language & Culture + AP German Language & Culture, or AP French Language & Culture + AP English Language & Composition
One exam from Global Perspective courses	AP World History
One exam from Science & Technology	AP Calculus AB or AP Biology
One exam in a field other than language	AP Macroeconomics, Studio Arts, AP Science Class
One exam from any field other than languages	AP Macroeconomics, AP Studio Art, AP Science