SPRINGFIELD — The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) today released data showing that Illinois’ Class of 2025 made significant gains in Advanced Placement (AP) participation and performance. These results reflect Illinois’ ongoing commitment to expanding access to rigorous coursework and opportunities for college credit for all students.
In 2025, 31.4% of Illinois public-school graduates earned a score of 3 or higher on at least one AP exam, ranking the state fifth among all 50 states. Over the past decade, the percentage of Illinois students scoring 3 or higher on an AP exam has increased 8.4 percentage points, demonstrating consistent growth in student achievement. In total, 59,773 students in Illinois public high schools took an AP exam in 2025.
“As Governor, I’m committed to making AP courses more accessible for students of all backgrounds. The results of that commitment speak for themselves: more students are excelling on their exams, earning college credit, and saving thousands in future tuition costs,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “When we give our students the college readiness tools they need to thrive, higher education isn’t just more attainable — it’s more affordable.”
“Access doesn’t just open doors — it transforms futures,” said State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tony Sanders. “By expanding advanced coursework across Illinois, we’re ensuring more students can step into rigorous learning, earn college credit, and graduate ready for success. These results show that when we raise expectations and remove barriers, Illinois students rise — and our entire state benefits.”
Illinois ranks among the top five states in multiple metrics for the Class of 2025:
- Second nationally for 10-year growth in graduates taking an AP exam during high school.
- Third nationally in AP participation among Hispanic/Latino graduates.
- Fourth nationally in AP participation among Black/African American graduates.
- Fourth nationally in AP participation among Asian graduates.
- Fifth nationally for graduates scoring 3 or higher on at least one AP exam.
Governor JB Pritzker's fiscal year 2026 budget continues Illinois’ strong investment in expanding access to AP coursework and ensuring students can participate in rigorous, college-level learning opportunities. Key supports include:
- $2.5 million in state funding to significantly reduce the cost of AP exams for students identified as low income.
- $500,000 annually for the AP Course Implementation Grant, supporting districts in expanding and strengthening AP programs, particularly for underrepresented students.
- Ongoing implementation of the Accelerated Placement Act, which requires that students who meet or exceed standards be automatically placed in the next most rigorous coursework available, expanding access to advanced learning opportunities.
Under Public Act 099-0358, all public colleges and universities are required to award college credit for AP exam scores of 3 or higher when the credit applies toward degree requirements. In 2025, Illinois public and private high school students took a total of 203,733 AP exams that resulted in a 3 or higher, representing a potential tuition and fee savings of $319.5 million for the state’s students and families.
AP courses are one way Illinois high school students can earn college credit while engaging in rigorous, college-level coursework. Participation in advanced coursework — including Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, dual credit, and enriched/honors classes — continues to climb across all programs, reflecting Illinois’ commitment to providing multiple pathways to college readiness.
Learn more about Illinois’ AP program on the ISBE Advanced Placement webpage.