Develop good study habits. AP classes are developed on the college level but administered at the high school. This gives a student the advantage of adjusting to the demands of college-level work with the support of the high-school setting.
Improve academic skills. The intensity of an AP class improves students' writing and problem-solving skills. These skills are the basis for success in college and the professional world.
Deepen subject area knowledge. An AP course delves into the subject matter well beyond where a typical high school class can go. Because of their college flavor, AP courses bring in varying perspectives on a particular subject, opening the student to more possibilities and pushing him to deeper analysis and exercise of critical thinking skills.
Earn college credits. Most colleges in the U.S. will award credit to a student who has taken an AP class based on his score on the AP exam. Successfully completing a couple of AP courses in high school can mean starting college with up to a semester's worth of credits already on your transcript.
Increase college acceptance. Having an AP class on your high school transcript shows colleges that you're academically oriented and capable of college-level work. It will help you stand out from many of the other applicants and increase your chances of being accepted to better colleges.