AP Computer Science Classes
AP (Advanced Placement) exams are college-level tests offered in high school that allow students to earn college credit and demonstrate their readiness for advanced coursework. Given the popularity of the Computer Science major in colleges, AP Computer Science A and AP Computer Science Principles are almost required these days for students who are interested in pursuing a college major in computer science or engineering. AP Computer Science A focuses on programming in Java and develops problem-solving skills, while AP Computer Science Principles introduces broader concepts in computing and data analysis. Both exams provide a solid foundation, demonstrate commitment to the field, and make students more competitive in college applications. Learn more about equipping your child to succeed on the exams with our award-winning live online AP Computer Science classes.
Free Online AP Computer Science Classes
Get an introduction to the popular real-world programming language Python to build a solid foundation of computer science skills before proceeding onto College Board-level classes.
In this free Python coding class, students will take their first dive into coding with Python. We will transition from block coding, which they learned in Scratch, to text-based coding. Students will learn how to animate and draw with Python, and will build their own story project to create a cool animation. Like all of our small group classes, this online Python for kids class is led by an experienced teacher. Join us, learn, and have fun!
How To Choose Online AP Computer Science Classes For Kids
AP CSA and AP CSP are the two Computer Science related AP exams offered by the College Board to high school students as an opportunity to earn college credit for a college-level computer science course. The two cover complementary content. Most people feel CSA is harder, and many students take CSP first and then CSA.
- Age: Even though most students that take AP exams are high school students, middle school students can take the exams as well.
- Experience: Begin with Python before progressing to either AP CS course.
- Goals: If students are aiming to study computer science in college or would like to be selected for strong internships or summer programs, both AP CS classes are a great fit.
Live Online Classes | Best For Grades | Class Highlights | Grades 4-6 | Grades 6-9 | Grades 9-12 | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Python for AI (Free Intro Available!) | 5-12 | Learn the most popular programming language in the real world, with focus on AI. Python is also the most suitable text-based coding language for students. | Advanced | Intermediate | Foundation | |
Computer Science Principles | 6-12 | A prep course for the AP CSP exam covering core computer architecture topics - binary, networking, security, algorithms, and more. | Advanced | Intermediate | ||
Intro to Java Programming (AP CSA Aligned) | 6-12 | A rigorous introduction to the Java programming language that also meets AP Computer Science Java (APCSA) requirements. | Advanced | Advanced |
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These virtually taught classes are so engaging, my son really enjoys them and is so excited to show us the coding projects he has completed on all 3 levels of Scratch Ninja. We will definitely be signing him up for more classes and thoroughly recommend Create & Learn to other parents.
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Amazing instructor. Can really keep my daughter engaged in a fun way. Thanks to Create & Learn my daughter's tech scores have skyrocketed at school.
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Amazing virtual classes that taught my son about coding. He has taken 3 classes and he loves them all. They have some really good programs. I would definitely recommend this website and I plan to sign him up for more classes.
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What Are The AP CS Exams?
The AP Computer Science A (AP CSA) exam focuses on learning the Java programming language to solve problems. AP Computer Science (AP CSP) focuses on the broader aspects of computing.
The 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.
The AP exams 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.
Java Careers: Imagine Your Child's Future
Your child could be a Cloud Solutions Developer working on Microsoft Azure, building and maintaining cloud-based applications for businesses. Java is commonly used in building scalable and reliable backend systems.
Imagine your child as a Backend Engineer who works on the systems that power Uber’s ride-hailing platform. These engineers use Java to build and maintain the infrastructure that handles millions of ride requests, driver assignments, and real-time location data every day.
Or how about a Full Stack Developer who works on the trading platform that clients use to buy and sell stocks, manage portfolios, and track their investments? These developers use Java to build both the backend (server-side) and the frontend (user interface) of the platform.
Learn AP Computer Science For Kids: Projects and Tutorials
Learn the basics of Java, how to download and install Java SDK, and follow a simple tutorial for getting started.
Java is more than another name for coffee, it’s also one of the most popular programming languages! Create a simple "chat bot" like program with Java.
Find the right AP CS course for your student to take with this handy guide.
AP Computer Science News For Kids
The new AP computer science principles course draws more female, Black and Latino students than an older AP computer science course focused on coding.
Between 2013 and 2023, the percentage of U.S. public high school graduates who took an AP Exam has increased.
See when the 2025 AP CS exams will be held. AP CSA: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 and AP CSP: Thursday, May 15, 2025.