Advanced Placement (AP) is a program that gives high school students the opportunity to take college-level courses and, in many cases, earn college credit. These classes are designed to mirror the rigor of introductory college courses, helping students build strong academic skills while still in high school. Students who pass the AP exam at the end of the course may receive college credit or qualify for advanced placement in college classes.

The AP program began in the mid-1950s as a way to bridge the gap between high school and college. What started with just 11 subjects in its pilot phase has now grown into a nationwide program offering 38 subjects. Today, more than 2.8 million students take AP exams each year, with many choosing to challenge themselves by enrolling in multiple AP courses throughout their high school careers.

 SPRING 2026 AP EXAM DATES