The Advanced Placement (AP) program offers more than 30 courses, but not all AP classes demand the same level of time, difficulty, or workload. Many students look for the “easiest” APs to balance their schedules, boost GPA, and secure college credit without overloading themselves.
While “easy” is subjective and depends on your strengths, some AP classes are widely considered less intensive — often due to higher pass rates, lighter workloads, or familiar content.
What Makes an AP Class ‘Easy’?
When students talk about an AP class being easy, they often mean:
- Manageable Workload: Less daily homework or fewer major assignments.
- High Pass Rates: A greater percentage of students earn scores of 3 or higher.
- Familiar Subject Matter: Topics that overlap with other courses you’ve taken.
- Straightforward Exam Format: Fewer complex question types or challenging free-response prompts.
Top Easiest AP Classes According to Students
1. AP Psychology
- Why it’s easier: Concepts are straightforward and often intuitive.
- Pass rate: Consistently above average.
- Best for: Students interested in human behavior, memory, and learning.
2. AP Environmental Science (APES)
- Why it’s easier: Less math-heavy than other sciences; real-world applications.
- Pass rate: Moderate, but the material is accessible.
- Best for: Students who enjoy discussions on sustainability, ecology, and policy.
3. AP Human Geography
- Why it’s easier: Vocabulary-heavy but conceptually clear.
- Pass rate: High for prepared students.
- Best for: Those interested in cultures, populations, and global development.
4. AP Computer Science Principles (CSP)
- Why it’s easier: Focuses more on concepts than advanced coding.
- Pass rate: One of the highest in the AP program.
- Best for: Students curious about tech, data, and computing basics.
5. AP Seminar
- Why it’s easier: Graded more on research and presentations than content memorization.
- Pass rate: High, especially for strong communicators.
- Best for: Students who like group projects and real-world problem solving.
Cautions When Choosing an ‘Easy’ AP
- Universities value rigor, so stacking only easy APs might not impress selective schools.
- Even easy APs require consistent effort and preparation.
- Choose based on interest — if you enjoy the subject, it will feel easier.
How Easy AP Classes Can Still Benefit You
- Boost GPA: Many schools weight AP grades, so even an easy AP can raise your average.
- Earn Credit: A score of 3+ can save tuition costs later.
- Balance Workload: Allows more focus on harder courses or extracurriculars.
FAQ – Easiest AP Classes
1. Which AP has the highest pass rate?
AP Chinese Language & Culture and AP Seminar often have high pass rates, but they may not be “easy” for everyone.
2. Are easy AP classes worth taking?
Yes — they can boost your GPA and still provide college credit.
3. Is AP Environmental Science really easy?
It’s easier than AP Chemistry or AP Physics, but still requires preparation.
4. Do colleges care if I take easy APs?
They prefer a balanced AP schedule — some challenging, some manageable.
5. What’s the easiest AP math?
Many say AP Statistics is easier than AP Calculus for non-STEM students.
6. Should I take an easy AP just for the GPA boost?
If it fits your schedule and interests, yes — but don’t avoid all challenging APs.
7. Can easy APs help with college admissions?
Yes, especially if paired with strong grades and extracurriculars.
8. Which AP should I take as my first one?
AP Psychology or AP Human Geography are popular first AP choices.
Make Your AP Choices Work for Your Future
Whether you choose an easy or challenging AP, your strategy should align with your college goals.
🎯 Take the University Match Quiz to find out which schools value your AP choices most.
🌍 Browse the Universities Directory to explore admissions requirements and credit policies.
