Why was the AP Capstone Diploma program created?

The AP Capstone Diploma program launched in fall 2014. We developed the program after hearing from higher education faculty and administrators who were seeking incoming freshmen with proficiency in critical thinking and communication skills. Specifically, these higher education professionals wanted to identify students who were able to analyze different perspectives, evaluate the credibility of sources, use scholarly methods, build evidence-based arguments, work in teams, work with mentors, and develop and deliver team and individual presentations.

Successfully completing an AP Capstone course or earning one of the AP Capstone awards communicates to colleges and universities that an applicant has these skills.