Study after study indicates that students who take advanced courses (Honors and Advanced Placement) in high school are better prepared for college/university life. At West Potomac High School, we offer one of the most robust menus of advanced academic courses in all of Fairfax County. 

Through college-level AP and Honors courses, students enter a universe of knowledge that might otherwise remain unexplored in high school.  Through courses, students have the opportunity to earn credit or advanced standing at most of the nation's colleges and universities. By taking honors courses, students set themselves on a path for academic excellence beginning almost as soon as they enter the doors of our learning community.
Here are just a few reasons to sign up for our most rigorous course offerings:

1. Gain the Edge in College Preparation

• Get a head start on college-level work.
• Improve your writing skills and sharpen your problem-solving techniques.
• Develop the study habits necessary for tackling rigorous course work.

2. Stand Out in the College Admissions Process

• Demonstrate your maturity and readiness for college.
• Show your willingness to push yourself to the limit.
• Emphasize your commitment to academic excellence.

3. Broaden Your Intellectual Horizons

• Explore the world from a variety of perspectives, most importantly your own.
• Study subjects in greater depth and detail.
• Assume the responsibility of reasoning, analyzing, and understanding for yourself.

With specific regards to AP courses, West Potomac offers nearly 25 courses and exams across six academic departments. AP literally offers something for everyone. The only requirements for AP students are a strong curiosity about the subject he/she plans to study and the willingness to work hard. Once you've decided to take the AP challenge it's easy to enroll. Talk to a counselor, an advanced academics teacher, or the AP Coordinator (TBD) about the course you want to take. Discuss the course's workload and any preparation you might need.

For Dual Enrollment (DE), West Potomac presently offers Dual Enrollment English 12, which meets Northern Virginia Community College (NVCC) requirements for college freshman-level English and the Commonwealth of Virginia’s requirements for English 12. Placement tests are required for DE courses. Please direct questions about Dual Enrollment class to the English Program Administrator, Mr. Eston Melton (eemelton@fcps.edu).

• Advanced Academics Overview (Video) http://www.fcps.edu/DIT/streaming/advancedacademics_mshs.asx

• 2012-2013 Advanced Academics courses at West Potomac
• AP Course Expectations
• Advanced Academic Course Drop Form

• Yale Ivy Scholars Announcement Letter
• Yale Ivy Scholars Program Description