FAQ About AP CSA and Intro to Java Class
Q: What is AP CSA?
Advanced Placement (AP) Computer Science A (also known as APCSA, AP Computer Science Applications, or AP Java) https://apstudents.collegeboard.org/courses/ap-computer-science-a is an AP Computer Science course and examination offered by the College Board to high school students as an opportunity to earn college credit for a college-level computer science course. AP Computer Science A is meant to be the equivalent of a first-semester course in computer science. The AP exam currently tests students on their knowledge of Java.
Q: What are the differences between AP CSA and AP CSP
AP CSA and AP CSP (Computer Science Principles) are the two Computer Science related AP tests offered by the College Board. The two cover complementary content. Most people feel CSA is harder and many students take CSP first and then CSA.
The AP Computer Science A course and exam focus on learning Java programming language to solve problems.
The AP Computer Science focuses on the broader aspects of computing. AP CSP exam has two parts, coding and fundamental CS knowledge. AP CSP Coding can use a variety of languages, e.g. Scratch, App Inventor, and Python (our recommendation), etc. Students also learn computing systems including the internet work, explore the potential impacts of these innovations, and contribute to a computing culture that is collaborative and ethical.
Lastly, the AP Exams for the two courses have different formats. AP Computer Science A has one end-of-course exam with multiple-choice and free-response questions. AP Computer Science Principles includes the Create performance task, which is completed during the course, and an end-of-course multiple-choice exam.
Whether your child is interested in AP CSP or AP CSA, or both, we recommend learning Python first to set a strong coding foundation.
Q: Can middle school students take AP exams?
A: Even though most students that take AP exams are high school students, middle school students can take the exams as well. You do need to find a location that can administer the exam for you. The most convenient option is likely your local high schools (public or private). In some cities, private test prep centers also offer the exams, likely at a higher cost than schools.
Q: My child's school offers AP CS classes in 11th grade. Is there a benefit of doing it earlier?
A: The answer to this question has a lot to do with your child's overall college and career goals. If s/he is interested in STEM, especially a computer science related major in college, they might want to demonstrate their interest and passion by doing it earlier. There are also a wide range of summer programs offered by colleges for high school students in various areas, and having done AP CS could help your student get into those programs. Some students also look for CS related internships during high school, and passing APCSA demonstrates their ability. Lastly, this also saves their AP Courses for other subjects at school, and/or empowers them to take even more advanced CS courses in 11th grade.