The 2026 College Board AP Program results show $4.46 million in projected tuition and fee savings for students and families — an increase from last year’s $4.2 million.
“Advanced coursework takes hard work and persistence, and North Dakota students continue to rise to that challenge,” State Superintendent Levi Bachmeier said. “Even in the face of directed budget cuts ahead of the next legislative session, we’ve intentionally protected AP Exam funding because these opportunities save families money and help students build confidence through rigorous learning. These students are committed to improving their future; lawmakers should continue their commitment to supporting them. We look forward to working with Gov. Armstrong and the Legislature to keep proven student-centered investments in place for North Dakota students.”
Advanced Placement (AP) courses give high school students the chance to take college‑level classes and earn college credit if they score 3 or above on the final exam. North Dakota students took 4,787 AP Exams in 2026, with 3,176 total test takers and a 6% increase in exams with a score of 3 or higher compared to 2025. In 2026, North Dakota students earned an estimated 10,977 potential college credits through AP coursework — credits that can reduce the cost and time required to complete a college degree.
The $4.46 million in college tuition savings assumes the 2026 AP exam scores of 3 or better equals 10,977 potential college credits, at a cost of $406 per credit.
The results draw from multiple College Board programs, including PSAT‑related assessments, SAT School Day and weekend administrations, and AP Exams. Together, this data provides a more complete picture of college readiness in North Dakota by showing how many students are taking advanced courses, completing college‑level exams and engaging in early college‑readiness benchmarks. The findings also show how North Dakota’s investment in AP Exam funding helps families save money on college and expands access to rigorous coursework for students statewide.