Advanced Placement

What Is an Advanced Placement (AP) Course?

The College Board defines Advanced Placement (AP) courses as “rigorous, college-level classes in a variety of subjects that give students the opportunity to earn college credit while in high school by scoring a 3 or higher (5-point scale) on the AP exam associated with that course.” Advanced Placement (AP) is a program in the United States and Canada created by the College Board, which offers college-level curricula and examinations to high school students. American colleges and universities may grant placement and course credit to students who obtain high scores on the examinations.

In North Carolina, 38 AP courses are offered in public high schools. Exam fees for AP and IB exams are funded for all NC public high school students through the NC AP Partnership.

College Board Information for Students

The North Carolina Advanced Placement Partnership (NCAPP)

To encourage and support more students to complete more rigorous courses, the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) established the NC Advanced Placement Partnership (NCAPP) in May 2014 with the College Board in response to North Carolina General Statute § 115C-174.26.  The NCAPP continues statewide efforts and work with LEAs to broaden access and successful participation in advanced coursework in NC public schools. The NCAPP works on state-wide initiatives as well as with targeted school districts to provide support and technical assistance.  

Advanced Placement Exam Schedule

AP exams are administered during two weeks in May of each school year. Testing coordinators are responsible for notifying students when and where to report for the exams. Early testing or testing at times other than those published by the College Board is not permitted under any circumstances.  

AP Exam Schedule

NC AP Exam and Registration Fee Guidance

In summer 2014, with SL2013-360 section 8.27, the General Assembly modified 115C.83.4A to enhance access and encourage participation in Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), Cambridge International (CIE) courses by appropriating funds to pay for all AP, IB, and AICE exams for public school or charter school students who are enrolled in the corresponding AP/IB/AICE courses. This funding continues in the recurring budget.

AP/IB/CIE Exam Fee Guidance, 2023-24

Report to the NC General Assembly: Broaden Successful Participation in Advanced Courses

This NCDPI report responds to the requirements of North Carolina General Statute § 115C-174.26, legislation establishing the NC Advanced Placement Partnership and the continuing work to broaden access and successful participation in advanced coursework in NC public schools.

AP/IB/CIE Report