No. GFA’s research on this topic included direct contact with peer schools and with admissions officers at forty selective colleges and universities. A clear picture emerged. A generation ago, taking 4, 6, or 8 AP courses distinguished a student from the vast majority of other high school seniors. By expanding and deepening opportunities for original inquiry and research, we give our students better opportunities to cultivate their intellects, interests, and passions. We also give our college counselors better opportunities to tell our students’ stories and communicate the nature and level of their achievements.