When Your School Can’t Support AP Classes: How to Keep Moving Forward
The news that your school might shut down—or cut advanced programs like AP classes—can feel overwhelming. Maybe you’ve spent years preparing for these courses, envisioning how they’d strengthen your college applications or deepen your knowledge in subjects you love. Suddenly, those plans seem uncertain. But here’s the thing: A school closure or loss of resources doesn’t have to derail your academic goals. With some creativity and proactive steps, you can still conquer AP-level material, earn college credit, and stay on track for future success. Let’s explore practical ways to navigate this challenge.
1. Tap Into Free and Affordable Online Resources
The internet is a goldmine for self-directed learners. Platforms like Khan Academy, Coursera, and edX offer free or low-cost courses designed by top universities. For AP-specific content, the College Board’s official AP Classroom provides videos, practice questions, and progress checks—even if your school isn’t administering the course. YouTube channels like Heimler’s History or Organic Chemistry Tutor break down complex topics into digestible lessons.
Don’t overlook open-source textbooks, either. Websites like OpenStax provide peer-reviewed materials aligned with AP curricula. Pair these with study apps like Anki or Quizlet to create flashcards for memorization. The key is to build a personalized “digital classroom” that mirrors the structure of a traditional AP course.
2. Build a Self-Study Routine That Works
Without a teacher or set schedule, staying disciplined is crucial. Start by reviewing the official AP Course and Exam Description (CED) for your subject. This document outlines every topic you’ll need to master. Break the content into weekly goals, and designate specific days for reading, problem-solving, and review.
Treat self-study like a real class. Set deadlines (e.g., “Finish Unit 3 by November 1”) and track your progress in a planner. Join online study groups through Reddit or Discord to discuss concepts with peers. If you’re struggling with a topic, don’t hesitate to email experts—many college professors or graduate students are happy to answer questions from motivated learners.
3. Master the Art of Practice Exams
AP exams are standardized, which means practicing under timed conditions is nonnegotiable. The College Board releases past exam questions annually, and sites like Albert.io offer additional practice problems with instant feedback. Aim to complete at least three full-length practice tests before exam day.
Analyze your mistakes ruthlessly. Did you misread the question? Run out of time? Struggle with a specific theme? Use these insights to adjust your study plan. For essay-based subjects like AP English or History, exchange practice essays with a study buddy for peer review.
4. Explore Alternative Education Options
If your school closes mid-year, consider dual enrollment at a local community college. Many institutions offer credits that transfer to four-year universities—sometimes even replacing AP scores. Alternatively, look into online high schools accredited to teach AP courses, such as Stanford Online High School or Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth.
Homeschooling cooperatives are another underrated option. These groups pool resources to hire specialized instructors for advanced subjects. Reach out to homeschooling networks in your area or post on community boards to find families in similar situations.
5. Advocate for Support
You’re not alone in this. Contact your school district to ask about contingency plans: Are there neighboring schools offering AP classes you could join? Can the district provide transportation or virtual access? If budget cuts are the issue, organize a student-led campaign to highlight the value of AP programs. Present data on college acceptance rates or alumni success stories to school board members.
Also, lean on your existing teachers. Even if they can’t teach the full AP curriculum, many will gladly recommend resources, review your work, or connect you with mentors.
6. Rethink College Applications
Admissions officers understand that circumstances like school closures are beyond your control. Use the “Additional Information” section of applications to explain gaps in AP offerings. Emphasize how you took initiative—through online courses, independent research, or community college classes—to continue challenging yourself academically.
If you can’t take the AP exam, focus on other ways to demonstrate mastery. Earn high scores on SAT Subject Tests (if available), complete passion projects related to the subject, or seek internships that apply classroom knowledge.
7. Stay Connected to Your Goals
It’s easy to feel demoralized when systems you relied on disappear. Reconnect with your “why.” Maybe you’re taking AP Biology to prepare for a medical career, or AP Literature because you adore storytelling. Let that purpose drive your daily efforts. Celebrate small wins, like mastering a tough calculus concept or writing a polished DBQ essay.
Remember, resilience is a skill colleges and employers value highly. Navigating this obstacle isn’t just about passing a test—it’s about proving you can adapt, problem-solve, and thrive in unpredictable situations.
Final Thoughts
A school closure or loss of AP classes is a hurdle, not a dead end. By combining online tools, disciplined study habits, and community resources, you can not only survive this challenge but emerge stronger. The skills you’ll build—self-motivation, resourcefulness, time management—are ones you’ll use long after the AP exams are over. Keep your eyes on the horizon, take it one step at a time, and don’t be afraid to ask for help along the way. Your education is bigger than a single school building or program. You’ve got this.
Please indicate: Thinking In Educating » When Your School Can’t Support AP Classes: How to Keep Moving Forward