THE CNMI Public School System’s Advanced Placement Program continues to grow, offering 16 unique AP courses and 8 Pre-AP courses to high school students across the islands.
AP courses are college-level classes offered in high school that give students the opportunity to challenge themselves academically, earn college credit, and strengthen their college applications. Successfully completing AP courses and exams can help students save time and money in college while developing critical thinking and study skills.
Pre-AP courses are designed to prepare students for the rigor of AP by focusing on close reading, problem-solving, and analytical writing. These foundational courses are essential for building confidence and skills that help students succeed in more advanced coursework later in high school.
This year, PSS administered 702 AP exams, representing a 23% increase from the previous school year.
In a historic achievement, 373 students scored a 3 or higher on their AP exams — an 84% increase from last year’s total of 203 students. A score of 3 or higher is typically considered passing and may qualify students for college credit, depending on the institution.
Last year also marked a significant milestone as all AP exams were transitioned to a digital testing platform. Thanks to the support and coordination of school-level AP Coordinators, the digital administration process went smoothly.
Over the past five years, the number of AP exams administered has steadily increased by an average of 47 exams per year, demonstrating the system’s commitment to expanding advanced academic opportunities. Increasing student access to AP courses and supporting their success on AP exams remain key goals of the AP Program.
According to end-of-course student survey data, many students shared that taking AP courses helped them build better study habits, improved their academic confidence, and gave them a clearer understanding of what to expect in college.
“We are incredibly proud of our students, educators, and school leaders for their collective efforts to raise the bar in academic achievement,” said Commissioner of Education Dr. Lawrence F. Camacho. “The growth we are seeing in our AP Program reflects our commitment to preparing every learner for college and career readiness.”
The AP Program is supported through federal funding under the Consolidated Grant’s College, Career, Life Readiness Project, which aims to ensure that every student is prepared for success in college, career, and life after high school.
