AP School Honor Roll

Coming in Fall 2023!

The AP School Honor Roll recognizes schools whose AP programs are delivering results for students while broadening access. Schools can earn this recognition annually based on criteria that reflect a commitment to increasing college-going culture, providing opportunities for students to earn college credit, and maximizing college readiness. 

The AP School Honor Roll offers four levels of distinction: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. 

Qualifying Criteria  

For a school to be recognized on the AP School Honor Roll in a given year, it must: 

  • Meet each of the following criteria for their students in the most recent graduating class; these criteria are anchored in research-based relationships between AP and college outcomes: 
    • College Culture: 40% or more of the graduating cohort took at least 1 AP Exam during high school;  
    • College Credit: 25% or more of the graduating cohort scored a 3 or higher on at least 1 AP Exam during high school; and  
    • College Optimization: 2% or more of the graduating cohort took 5 or more AP Exams during high school. At least 1 of those exams was taken in 9th or 10th grade, so that students are spreading their AP experience across grades rather than feeling disproportionate pressure in any single year. 

  • Supply total grade 12 enrollment for their entire school to the AP Program. AP coordinators can update this information online in AP Registration and Ordering.   

  • Be located within the United States (including U.S. territories) or Canada. 

Equity and Inclusion Award

Schools on the AP School Honor Roll may also earn the Equity and Inclusion Award, honoring schools that demonstrate a clear and effective commitment to equitable access to advanced coursework.  

Schools on the AP School Honor Roll also earn the Equity and Inclusion Award if the percentage of AP Exam takers who are underrepresented minority and/or low-income students mirrors the school’s overall student demographics. For example, if 50% of a school's student body is low income, then 50% of the AP Exam takers, must also be low income for a school to receive the Equity and Inclusion Award. 

Receiving Recognition

Beginning in fall 2023, AP coordinators, principals, and other school and district administrators will be able to view a school’s current status on the AP School Honor Roll Progress Report by signing in to AP Score Reports for Educators. Honor Roll qualifying schools will also receive a kit to help celebrate their recognition with their community.

For schools also earning the Equity and Inclusion Award, the AP School Honor Roll Progress Report will reflect that recognition as well. 

For questions not answered below, please contact [email protected]

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