[KSig RC]

AP classes are the way to go, if you have the option, for many of the reasons noted here.

Also, the ability to select your own curriculum allows you flexibility in college - I had all of my prereqs done before I entered BU, and could have graduated in 2 years if I were a massive tool who didn't want to enjoy life (also changing my major would have been impossible).

The 'tiers' of AP recognition (I was a National Scholar) also look great on entrance resumes, even if you don't take a 'full load' every year. Additionally, it's not overly intense as a program, although individual classes are rigorous - there is little attrition from people taking one or two classes. The difficulty comes from the subject, not the course load.

ETA: "Teaching to the test" is an absolute joke - AP tests are comprehensive over a subject. To say that someone is 'teaching to the test' over critical thinking in a class like, say, European History is laughable at best. Now, practicing the AP's style (for instance, DBQs) could be considered "teaching to the test", but not in opposition to critical thinking (definite False Dilemma). Additionally, recent research has shown that practice tests reinforce understanding and retention far more than by rote studying . . . so yeah, bottom line, the "teaching to the test" argument is fallacious.