On the Common Application, Advanced Placement (AP) Seminar does not fall under a singular, predefined subject category. Instead, it is typically categorized based on its interdisciplinary nature and the primary focus of the student’s research projects. Students often select “Other” within the subject listing and then provide a more specific description that aligns with their work, such as “Research,” “Social Sciences,” or “Humanities,” depending on their chosen project themes. This approach reflects the course’s emphasis on broad critical thinking and research skills applicable across multiple disciplines.
The advantage of this categorization flexibility lies in its accurate representation of the course’s unique curriculum. Unlike traditional subject-specific AP courses, AP Seminar cultivates skills like analysis, argumentation, and collaboration, skills valuable in all academic fields. By allowing students to self-define the subject area based on their work, the Common Application acknowledges the individualized nature of the course and showcases the student’s capacity for independent research and intellectual exploration. This flexibility benefits students by allowing them to highlight their strengths and academic interests in a way that aligns with their chosen major.
