What AP classes should I prioritize for University of Hawaii admissions?

For University of Hawaiʻi admissions, the best AP classes to prioritize are the ones that strengthen the core academic subjects: AP English, AP Calculus or AP Statistics, AP Biology, Chemistry, or Physics, AP U.S. History or AP World History, and a language course if you can continue one. UH generally cares more about a solid college-prep record, GPA, and success in rigorous core classes than about collecting APs in random subjects. The strongest schedule is usually the most challenging one available at your school that still aligns with your intended major and lets you earn strong grades.

If you are applying to Mānoa, admissions is based heavily on academic preparation, and rigorous coursework helps show readiness. For example, a future STEM major benefits more from AP Calculus and AP science than from loading up on unrelated AP electives, while a humanities or social science applicant would get more value from AP English, history, and possibly AP Government or psychology if offered.

A good rule is to prioritize in this order: advanced math, lab science, English, social studies, then relevant electives. If you already have the core areas covered, choose APs connected to what you may study in college. AP Environmental Science can make sense for certain interests, but AP Chemistry or Physics is often seen as stronger preparation for many science pathways.