AP courses, or Advanced Placement courses, are college-level classes offered in high school. They allow students to study subjects in greater depth and prepare for the AP exams, which can potentially earn them college credit if they score well. These courses cover a variety of subjects, including math, science, history, and languages. Taking AP courses can enhance a student's academic profile and demonstrate readiness for college-level work. Additionally, many colleges and universities recognize AP exam scores during the admissions process, which can give students a competitive edge.