GrenadaAP Test Participation Rises 16.2% in Mississippi
The number of students taking AP courses and passing the associated exams has doubled since 2013, with 13,233 public school students administered nearly 19,000 AP exams in the 2025-26 school year. Passing scores on those exams increased by 12.6%.
Global Newsflix 2 min read
The Mississippi Department of Education reported a 16.2% increase in the number of students taking AP exams during the 2025-26 school year compared to the previous year. This increase brings the total number of students taking AP exams to 13,233, with nearly 19,000 exams administered.
Of these exams, 10,305 students earned a qualifying score, which can be used to receive college credit at universities or community colleges. All public schools in Mississippi are required to offer AP courses, which provide students with the opportunity to prepare for college and earn necessary credits.
House Education Committee Chair Rob Roberson congratulated students, parents, and teachers on their hard work, stating that they deserve all the credit for this achievement. He looks forward to the day when advanced placement courses become the norm, rather than the exception.
The Department of Education also reported that 36 other states in the nation have a statewide AP credit policy, allowing students who perform well to save money on their higher education. AP courses are available in subject areas such as English Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies.
Offering accelerated courses like AP classes plays a role in accountability scores assigned to districts and schools by the Mississippi Department of Education. Additionally, districts can receive funding to help cover the cost of AP exams taken by low-income students.
Key facts
- 16.2% increase in AP exam participation in Mississippi
- 12.6% increase in passing scores on AP exams
- 13,233 public school students took nearly 19,000 AP exams
- 10,305 students earned a qualifying score
Three perspectives
Neutral
The increase in AP exam participation and passing scores is a positive trend for Mississippi's education system. However, it is essential to continue monitoring the progress and addressing any challenges that may arise. The state's education department will likely continue to support and fund AP courses to ensure their continued success.
Positive
The doubling of students taking AP courses and passing the associated exams since 2013 is a significant achievement for Mississippi's education system. This increase in participation and passing scores demonstrates the state's commitment to providing students with opportunities for advanced learning and preparation for college.
Negative
Despite the increase in AP exam participation and passing scores, there may still be challenges to address, such as ensuring equal access to AP courses for all students, particularly those from low-income backgrounds. The state's education department must continue to work to address these issues and provide support to students who need it.
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