A benefit of taking AP courses is that you can SKIP INTRODUCTORY CLASSES. If you already know your preferred college major, taking a related AP course and earning a qualifying score on the AP Exam can help you avoid required introductory courses so you can move directly into upper-level classes and focus on work that interests you the most. Even taking an AP Exam unrelated to your major (even if you're unsure of your major) can place you beyond your college's general education requirements. This opens up additional time on your schedule, enabling you to do a second major or minor, take exciting electives, or pursue other interests.