AP Computer Science Principles
Learn all about the course and exam. Already enrolled? Join your class in My AP.
Learn all about the course and exam. Already enrolled? Join your class in My AP.
Go to AP Central for resources for teachers, administrators, and coordinators.
Computer science is everywhere, from our smartphones and video games to music, medicine, and much more. AP Computer Science Principles (AP CSP) can help you understand how computing and technology shape the world around you.
Hear from students who took this course and find out how it can benefit you as you prepare to own your future, your way.
You don’t need an advanced understanding of coding; AP CSP is an introductory-level course meant for all students. A school year studying computer science will help you learn and grow by applying your ideas to create real solutions.
Hear from students about their AP Computer Science Principles experience.
It’s about using the skills you’ll learn to solve real-world problems, often working as a team. A home computer is not needed, and schools are required to provide students with access to computing devices to complete the course.
Create apps to track health data and provide real-time suggestions for ways to live healthier
Program models and experiments that help answer biology, physics, and sociology questions
Design and build robots for use in fields like manufacturing, surgery, research, and transportation
Create tools that people can use to collect money for causes they care about
AP Computer Science A isn’t going anywhere. You’ll have the option to take either of the AP computer science courses or both. Check out the differences below.
Learn the fundamentals of programming and problem solving using the Java language.
Develop skills for future study or a career in computer science or other STEM fields.
AP score comes from one end-of-course exam with two sections: multiple choice and free response.
Learn how computing impacts their world and computing basics like problem solving, programming, cybersecurity, and working with data.
Broaden your understanding of computer science for use in a variety of majors and careers.
AP score comes from two components: one in-class Create performance task and one end-of-course multiple-choice exam.
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AP Computer Science Principles can lead to a wide range of careers and college majors
Explore organizations and programs designed to help all students in their computer science journey.