Overview

The Advanced Placement (AP) program is a cooperative, educational partnership between the Chicago Public Schools and area colleges and universities. Since its inception in 1955, the program has provided motivated high school students the opportunity to take college-level courses in a high school setting. Enrollment in AP courses prepares students to take an optional AP exam in the spring administered by the College Board. Students with high scores on these exams can earn credit at most colleges and universities.

Goals

• Enable high school students to get a head start on college by providing college-level courses
• Provide an accelerated and academically challenging program of study
• Encourage students to commit to academic excellence

Program benefits

• Promote equity and access to AP courses in all high schools
• Support a culture of high expectations
• Prepare students for success in postsecondary education
• Earn college credit while in high school

Resources

Learn more information about AP courses on the College Board .