Advanced Placement

2026 AP Capstone Fee Update

Beginning in 2025-26, the exam fee for AP Capstone™ courses (AP Seminar and AP Research) is the same as all other AP Exams: $99 per exam at schools in the U.S., U.S. territories, and Canada, and all DoDEA schools; $129 per exam at schools everywhere else. Review all fee information at AP Exam Fees.

Advanced Placement Program® (AP®) courses reflect what is taught in top introductory college courses. AP courses prepare students to take the College Board Advanced Placement examination given in late spring of each school year. Students may be granted Advanced Placement status and/or college credit on the basis of how well they perform on these tests.AP courses are taught by certified and trained high school teachers to provide additional rigor and expectations.

Information regarding advanced placement courses and examinations is available from the counseling offices at each high school or by visiting College Board.

Students are not required to take an Advanced Placement course to be eligible to take an Advanced Placement examination; however, students enrolled in AP courses are expected to take the AP exams.

What to expect from Advanced Placement

Courses typically demand more of students than regular or honors courses.

Courses reflect what is taught in introductory college courses

Classes tend to be fast-paced and cover more material than typical high school classes

More time, inside and outside of the classroom, is required to complete lessons, assignments and homework

AP teachers expect their students to think critically, analyze and synthesize facts and data, weigh competing perspectives, and write clearly and persuasively.

The Benefits of Advanced Placement

AP courses can be challenging; however, the benefits and skills students are taught in class will benefit them in post secondary college courses and career path.

AP courses are often the most interesting and fulfilling courses a student takes in high school.

AP teachers are among the most prepared, dedicated, and inspiring teachers at their schools.

Students develop confidence, and learn the study habits and time management skills essential for success in college

31% of colleges and universities consider a student’s AP experience when making decisions about which students will receive scholarships.

A recent study showed that students taking AP courses and exams were much more likely to earn a college degree in four years

A recent study showed that students who earned a 3, 4, or 5 on the AP exam had higher first-year college grade point averages and were more likely to return for the second year of college than non-AP students of similar ability.

Advanced Placement Exams

AP Exams are administered by schools worldwide on set dates each May. Spring 2026 AP test dates are May 4-15th, visit the College Board Exam Schedule.

Each AP Exam contains multiple-choice questions and free-response questions (essay, problem-solving, oral response). Exams vary in length but are typically 2-3 hours.

For current exam information, visit College Board.

Current Exam Fees: $99 per exam, AP Research/Seminar $99 per exam

Why Take Advanced Placement Exams?

Many four-year colleges and universities in the United States offer credit for Advanced Placement for qualifying AP Exam scores.

Students earn credit toward their college degrees. Students should research the college/universities AP policies to have the most up-to-date information.

Students can skip introductory courses and move directly into higher-level classes, and/or fulfill general education requirements for some colleges and universities

Future monetary savings: Passing an exam means likely saving money during college.

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