Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary differences between AICE, IB, and AP?
The reality is that all three programs are going to prepare your son or daughter for the rigors of college coursework while offering them the opportunity to earn college credit (saving time and money) before stepping on campus. Both AICE and IB include a full curriculum that encourages students to matriculate through a variety of courses/syllabi in order to obtain a program diploma. AP, while currently the most widely recognized in the U.S., does not have a curriculum, but is still widely accepted and highly regarded.
AICE offers a level of flexibility not available in the other programs when students are registering for classes.
Do ALL colleges accept AICE credits?
More than 500 colleges and universities nationwide accept AICE credits, including the Ivy and Ivy Plus institutions as well as the majority of Florida universities. Of course, some schools, especially private schools, will pick and choose which credits they accept.
What is the difference between an AS Level course and an A Level course?
This is a common question - most colleges and universities both nationally and globally refer to the Cambridge AICE Program as AS and A Levels.
An AS Level course is designed to be one year of study culminating with the examination in May/June and will earn one credit toward the AICE Diploma.
An A Level course is designed to be the second of two years of study. The A Level exam earns a second credit toward the AICE Diploma. Please note, many elite colleges require students to earn an A to guarantee acceptance of credit.
What are the benefits of earning an AICE Diploma?
Earning the AICE Diploma in conjunction with completing the requisite 100 hours of community service, means the candidate will automatically earn the top Bright Futures scholarship. Otherwise, the Bright Futures Scholarship is dependent upon SAT/ACT scores, which the legislature can change from year to year. Furthermore, when earned at the end of the junior year it helps set Mariner High School Cambridge students apart from other candidates, during the college application process.
How many AICE credits do I need to earn an AICE Diploma?
Candidates must earn 7 total credits in AICE courses to earn the AICE Diploma. The final credit must be acquired by successfully completing AICE Global Perspectives.
How do I earn an AICE credit?
When a candidate sits for an AICE examination and passes the test, the student earns a credit toward the AICE Diploma. When a student takes the exam in the May/June session, the results are typically returned in mid to early August.
What if I do not pass an AICE examination? Do I lose ALL credit?
If you fail an AICE examination it does not impact the level of credit you receive for passing the course. Therefore, you still receive the necessary credit toward the local high school diploma. However, you will not have earned a credit toward the AICE Diploma.
When do students take AICE examinations?
AICE examinations are offered twice during the course of the school year. The majority of our students will take AICE examinations in May/June. Please note, several AICE examinations may take place after the regular school year has ended, but are absolutely still required.
How many college credits can I earn while still in high school?
Students can earn a maximum of 45 college credits while still enrolled in high school. Of course, this is difficult to accomplish and will require a level of diligence from the student. On average, AICE students earn between 30 – 36 college credits.
For more information contact Melissa Faasse 239-772-3324.