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AP Computer Science Principles

AP Computer Science Principles is a broad, language-agnostic introduction to computer science, organized around five Big Ideas: creative development, data, algorithms and programming, computer systems and networks, and the impact of computing. Unlike AP Computer Science A, this course isn't tied to a single programming language, and a large part of the final grade comes from a student-built program completed and submitted during the course, not just an end-of-course exam. That combination of conceptual breadth and independent project work is different from most other AP courses, and it rewards planning ahead rather than last-minute review. Our tutors at Growing Stars build both the conceptual understanding and the project-planning skills clearly, step by step, using the student's own course material.

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Starter Plan
4 hours per month $23 per session $92 per month
Growth Program
8 hours per month $23 per session $184 per month
Best Value
Package Plan
50 sessions ( 6 month ) $20.7 per session $1150 $1035 for 6 months

ℹ️ All prices are in USD.

  • Personalized AP Computer Science Principles sessions
  • Aligned with US school curriculum

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AP Computer Science Principles Tutoring

One-on-One Support for a Course That Can Earn College Credit

AP Computer Science Principles is a broad, language-agnostic introduction to computer science, organized around five Big Ideas: creative development, data, algorithms and programming, computer systems and networks, and the impact of computing. Unlike AP Computer Science A, this course isn’t tied to a single programming language, and a large part of the final grade comes from a student-built program completed and submitted during the course, not just an end-of-course exam. That combination of conceptual breadth and independent project work is different from most other AP courses, and it rewards planning ahead rather than last-minute review. Our tutors at Growing Stars build both the conceptual understanding and the project-planning skills clearly, step by step, using the student’s own course material.

Our expert tutors focus on core computing concepts, code tracing, and clear written explanation, helping students build the skills they need for the AP exam and Create Performance Task, and for college-level computer science beyond it.

What You Will Learn

AP course content and exam formats may be updated from time to time. Refer to the College Board website for the most up-to-date information.

Start Improving Your AP Computer Science Principles Score Today

Start your AP Computer Science Principles preparation today and achieve better college placement with expert guidance.

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Skills Learned and Tested in AP Computer Science Principles

  • Computational Solution Design: Designing and evaluating computational solutions for a given purpose.
  • Algorithms and Program Development: Developing and implementing algorithms to solve problems.
  • Abstraction in Program Development: Building programs that incorporate abstraction to manage complexity.
  • Code Analysis: Evaluating and testing algorithms and programs for correctness and efficiency.
  • Computing Innovations: Investigating computing innovations and their impact on people and society.
  • Responsible Computing: Contributing to an inclusive, safe, collaborative, and ethical computing culture.

Course Content

  • Creative Development
  • Data
  • Algorithms and Programming
  • Computer Systems and Networks
  • Impact of Computing

Tutoring sessions follow and align with the school’s instructional pace and learning materials, ensuring that tutoring supports and reinforces classroom learning.

Exam Overview

  • Format: The exam has two very different components. The multiple-choice section is a fully digital, computer-graded exam. The Create Performance Task is a program the student builds over roughly 9 hours of class time earlier in the course, submitted digitally before the exam window.
  • Calculator Policy: Calculators are not allowed.
  • Section 1 — Multiple-Choice: 70 questions | 2 hours | 70% of Exam Score. Includes single-select questions, a set tied to a reading passage about a computing innovation, and multi-select questions.
  • Section 2 — Create Performance Task: Completed during the course | 30% of Exam Score. Students submit program code, a video of it running, and a Personalized Project Reference, then answer two related questions about their own project during a separate written-response portion of the end-of-course exam.

Why Families Choose Growing Stars for AP Computer Science Principles Tutoring

At Growing Stars, we know that every student engages with computing concepts and independent projects differently. Our expert tutors personalize each session to the student’s course pace, learning goals, and areas of difficulty, rather than following a fixed script.

Sessions follow the student’s course notes and upcoming assessments, supported by our library of practice questions, code-tracing exercises, and Create Performance Task planning guidance. Because sessions are one-on-one, tutors can spend as much time as needed on the concept causing trouble — whether that’s tracing pseudocode, understanding how the internet routes data, or planning a Create Performance Task project.

Sessions take place online, so students can join from home, a study space, or anywhere with an internet connection.

Program Details & Tutoring Approach

  • Live Sessions on an Interactive Platform: Live classroom sessions with expert tutors are conducted through an interactive platform with a user-interactive whiteboard, audio and video, screen sharing, chat, homework tools, progress monitoring, and a parent portal. These features support effective learning, personalized instruction, communication, and easy progress tracking.
  • Customized Learning Materials: Students receive learner-specific study materials, practice questions, review materials, and additional resources aligned with their AP course requirements and learning needs.
  • Regular Homework & Review: Tutors assign homework after each session based on the topics covered and the student’s learning needs. Assignments are reviewed in subsequent sessions to reinforce learning and address areas requiring additional practice.
  • Targeted AP Practice: Students receive AP-style practice questions, mixed and cumulative practice sheets, and mock exams tailored to their individual learning needs.
  • Homework Assistance: Students receive step-by-step guidance with assigned homework. Tutors clarify questions, explain concepts, and guide students toward independent problem-solving and effective application of course-specific skills.
  • School Assessment & AP Exam Preparation: Receive customized preparation for class tests, quizzes, unit assessments, major school exams, and AP exams, with targeted practice and review aligned with the student’s curriculum and assessment requirements.
  • Consistent Tutoring: Students receive continuous support from the same dedicated tutor on a regular schedule. Sessions remain aligned with the student’s learning needs, AP curriculum, and specific academic requirements.
  • Progress Monitoring: Receive feedback after sessions and monthly progress reports. Education Managers monitor student development and implement additional support when needed.
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250 +

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Years Expertise

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5M +

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50K +

Families Served

Tutoring Benefits

  • Personalized 1-on-1 Tutoring: Individualized instruction tailored to the student’s learning pace, goals, and areas of need.
  • Expert AP Tutors: Learn from experienced tutors who provide clear explanations, targeted guidance, and effective problem-solving and test-taking strategies.
  • Easy Scheduling: Convenient scheduling designed to fit the student’s academic commitments and availability.
  • Concept Mastery & Skill Development: Build a strong understanding of AP course concepts, analytical skills, subject-specific methods, scientific or mathematical reasoning, and problem-solving, and apply them in familiar, unfamiliar, and real-world contexts.
  • AP Exam Readiness: Develop the content knowledge, analytical skills, and exam strategies needed to approach AP questions confidently and demonstrate understanding on AP assessments.
  • Greater Confidence: Build confidence in understanding challenging course concepts, analyzing questions, solving problems, and applying subject-specific skills independently.
  • Continuous Academic Support: Receive ongoing guidance throughout the course to support consistent learning, skill development, and AP exam preparation.

What to Expect

  • Learning Support: Tutoring can complement or supplement classroom instruction, or provide an alternative learning option, based on the student’s individual needs and educational pathway.
  • Course-Specific Support: Tutoring is tailored to the student’s AP course syllabus, learning materials, requirements, and learning objectives, regardless of whether the course is taken at school or through another educational provider.
  • Learn, Apply & Master: Tutors help students understand course concepts, practice subject-specific skills, apply knowledge to different types of questions and problems, and develop independent problem-solving and analytical skills.
  • Academic Integrity: All tutoring support is provided in accordance with the academic integrity and honesty policies of the student’s educational institution.

How It Works

Get started with our tutoring in 4 simple steps.

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Free Personalized Learning Consultation

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Get matched with an expert tutor

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Start personalized learning

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Ongoing Support from an Education Manager

Online Tutoring vs Self-Study

See our tutoring gives students a faster and more supported path to better placement scores.

Online Tutoring
  • Expert guidance from a qualified tutor
  • Personalized lessons based on skill gaps
  • Faster score improvement with focused practice
  • Regular feedback and progress tracking
  • Stronger motivation and accountability
Self-Study
  • No expert support for difficult topics
  • General practice without personal guidance
  • Slower improvement through trial and error
  • Limited feedback on mistakes
  • Requires high self-discipline and consistency

What Parents Say

See how Growing Stars helps students build confidence, improve grades, and enjoy learning through personalized one-on-one support.

Related Subjects

Explore other tutoring subjects that complement AP Computer Science Principles preparation and help students strengthen the skills needed for college placement success.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find quick answers to common questions about our AP Computer Science Principles tutoring, session format, and student support.

Sessions are conducted live on our interactive platform, using audio/video, a digital whiteboard, screen sharing, chat, homework tools, progress monitoring, and a parent portal. These features support interactive learning, personalized instruction, communication, and convenient progress tracking.

Yes. Sessions are aligned with your child's AP course, school curriculum, textbooks, class notes, assignments, and other learning materials. Tutors adapt instruction to the resources your child uses while also supporting preparation for upcoming assessments and AP exams.

Yes. We pair each student with a dedicated tutor for consistency, allowing sessions to build on previous learning and provide continuous support throughout the course.

Progress is monitored through homework, practice, quizzes, assessments, mock exams, and ongoing tutor feedback. Parents can receive progress updates and reports through the Parent Portal, email, and GS App, helping them stay informed about their child's learning, strengths, areas for improvement, and overall progress.

Not necessarily. Tutoring is aligned with your child's course materials, textbooks, class notes, assignments, and other learning resources, with additional practice questions and study materials provided as needed.

Yes. Sessions can be tailored to specific topics and skills where your child needs additional support, while also addressing broader course content as needed. Tutors can adjust the pace, level of practice, and instructional support based on the student's learning needs.

Yes. Live online AP tutoring provides real-time interaction, an interactive digital whiteboard, audio/video, screen sharing, collaborative learning, and immediate feedback. Tutors can explain concepts, work through questions and tasks, and provide personalized instruction throughout each session.

AP Exams are scored on a 1–5 scale. A score of 5 indicates "extremely well qualified," while a score of 3 indicates "qualified."

No. Incorrect or unanswered questions do not result in a penalty.

A qualifying AP Computer Science Principles score may earn college credit, placement, or both, depending on the college. Credit policies vary by institution.

No prior computer science experience is required. Students should be comfortable with basic mathematical and analytical problem-solving.