Illinois reports record highs in Advanced Placement participation and performance

The Illinois State Board of Education has released new data from the College Board, indicating that the Class of 2024 in Illinois has set new records in Advanced Placement (AP) participation and performance. The report highlights the state's efforts to enhance college readiness and ensure equitable access to advanced coursework.

Over the past decade, the percentage of Illinois graduates scoring a 3 or higher on an AP exam has increased by 6.7 percentage points, from 21.6% in 2014 to 28.3% in 2024, surpassing the national average of 22.6%. Governor JB Pritzker said, "Over the years, we've seen that when we provide our students with the right opportunities, they rise to the occasion." He noted that targeted investments have expanded access to AP courses and reduced costs, leading to increased participation and performance among Illinois students.

State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tony Sanders expressed pride in Illinois students' achievements, saying, "Illinois students continue to rise to the challenge of college-level coursework in high school." He emphasized that state investments are enabling more students, particularly those previously underrepresented, to access AP courses and earn college credit.

Illinois ranks among the top five states in several AP success metrics: third for a decade-long increase in graduates scoring a 3 or higher on an AP exam; fifth for the percentage of the Class of 2024 achieving this score; fourth for Black/African American graduates taking an AP exam; fifth for Hispanic/Latino graduates; third for Asian graduates; and fifth overall for graduates taking an AP exam during high school.

Participation across all racial and ethnic groups has grown due to state efforts to expand access. Governor Pritzker's fiscal year 2025 budget allocated $3 million toward AP initiatives, including $500,000 for course implementation grants and $2.5 million for exam fee waivers.

Public Act 101-0654 mandates automatic enrollment into advanced coursework if students meet state standards on assessments. This policy aims to further promote equity in accessing advanced learning opportunities.

In 2024, over 57,000 Illinois graduates took an AP exam during high school, with more than 37,000 scoring a 3 or higher—resulting in potential savings of $264 million on tuition fees for families.

Research indicates that success in AP courses correlates with timely college graduation and reduced student debt. More information about Illinois’ AP program is available on the ISBE Advanced Placement webpage.

Information from this article can be found here.