New data released shows 12.6 percent of Missouri’s 2019 graduates scored a 3 or better on their Advanced Placement (AP) exams, up from 12.2 percent in 2018 and seven percent in 2009. AP exam participation has also increased. Just over 21 percent of Missouri‘s 2019 graduates took AP classes in high school, up from 12 percent in 2009.

AP courses allow high school students to stand out during the college admission process and be better prepared for the rigorous coursework that lies ahead in college. Scoring a 3 or higher on an AP exam also gives students the opportunity to earn credit for those courses at many Missouri colleges and universities. Students also often advance directly into higher-level college courses.

“We are proud to see more Missouri students taking on the challenge of Advanced Placement courses and exams,” said Commissioner of Education Margie Vandeven. “That said, we know we must work to provide better access to AP course opportunities for all students in Missouri. We must also continue exploring how we can make the investment in and commitment to an AP course more meaningful for those students and their families.”

Seven Missouri school districts made the AP District Honor Roll, a recognition given to districts who increase access to AP classes for their students while maintaining or increasing the percentage of students earning scores of 3 or higher on the exams. Those districts include:

• Affton School District
• Francis Howell School District
• Liberty Public Schools
• Lindbergh Schools
• Nixa Public Schools
• Parkway School District
• Webster Groves School District

Six of the seven districts listed have achieved this honor for multiple years; Lindbergh Schools is new to the AP District Honor Roll in 2019.

Participating in an AP exam is one of several measures used to determine college and career readiness. In addition to participating in AP courses and exams, 33 percent of 2019 graduates were enrolled in dual enrollment or dual credit classes.