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Courses

Course decisions and how each subject is actually learned: choosing between Honors and AP, the nodes on the math acceleration path, how reading and writing levels are judged, and how all of it meets weighted GPA.

Articles
10
Last updated
November 7, 2026
  • AP and Honors
  • Math placement
  • English reading and writing levels
  • Labs and projects
  • Weighted GPA
November 7, 2026

UC Intro Math Non-Pass Rate Hits 18%: HS Math Plans

A UC report shows the share of freshmen not passing introductory math rose from 13% to 18% in five years. What it means for Irvine students' high school math plans.

  1. Calculus in Engineering Admissions: IUSD Math Paths

    A University of Michigan study finds engineering applicants without calculus were 16.4 points less likely to be recommended. What it means for IUSD math placement.

  2. Two New AP Exams in 2027: Cybersecurity and Business

    AP Cybersecurity and AP Business with Personal Finance launched in fall 2026, with first exams May 4 and 5, 2027. Content, format, credit status, and Irvine availability.

  3. How AP English Language Essays Are Scored: 6 Points

    Each of the three AP English Language essays is scored on 6 points: thesis 1, evidence and commentary 4, sophistication 1. A row-by-row guide for Irvine families.

  4. How UC Calculates GPA: Five Honors-Point Rules

    UC counts only 10th- and 11th-grade A-G courses, with at most 8 honors points and 4 in 10th grade. The five rules and what they mean for IUSD course planning.

  5. AP Exam Not Offered at Your School: Finding a Site

    College Board lets students take AP Exams without the course, but they must find a school that accepts outside test takers. How to search, when to call, and deadlines.

  6. Nov. 13 AP Deadline: Three Decisions for Irvine Families

    The fall AP exam order deadline for 2026-27 is November 13; a $40 per exam late fee follows. Why it decides the year's course load, plus four portfolio deadlines.

  7. Irvine APAAS 2026-27: Eligibility, Criteria, Timeline

    IUSD's GATE screening and the APAAS application are separate processes. This guide covers eligibility, the four criteria, host schools, and the next timeline.

  8. ISEE Policy Changes Every Irvine Family Should Know

    ERB has merged with EMA to form E3n, and the ISEE still allows one test per season in 2026-27. This guide covers the seasons, test site types, and score-sending rules.

  9. Why Reading Is the Foundation of Every Test Score

    The ISEE verbal sections and SAT Reading and Writing test one skill set, built by daily reading. This guide uses 2024 NAEP data and gives a plan for grades 2 to 12.

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