PROVIDENCE – Rhode Island students have more than doubled the number of Advanced Placement exam scores that qualify for college credit over the past five years, according to preliminary data released by the R.I. Department of Education, a milestone state leaders say reflects broader gains in academic achievement and college readiness.
The state recorded more than 10,400 AP exam scores of 3 or higher in 2026, up from more than 4,600 in 2021. A score of 3 is commonly used by colleges and universities as a benchmark for awarding college credit or advanced placement. More than 70% of AP exams taken by Rhode Island students this year earned a score of 3 or higher.
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According to the preliminary results, Rhode Island students took more than 14,500 AP exams during the 2025-26 school year, an increase of more than 1,000 exams, or roughly 8%, from the previous year. The number of exams earning a qualifying score increased by nearly 1,000, representing a gain of more than 10% over last year.
State education officials linked the growth to ongoing efforts to expand access to rigorous coursework and strengthen pathways to college and careers. AP courses allow high school students to complete college-level work in subjects ranging from mathematics and science to English and history while still in high school.
“Rhode Island’s latest AP results reflect the tremendous momentum our state is experiencing and are a testament to the hard work of Rhode Island students, educators, school leaders and families,” said Angélica Infante-Green, the state’s education commissioner. “Today’s AP outcomes demonstrate that when students are provided with opportunity, support and high-quality learning experiences, they rise to the challenge and excel.”
The AP gains come as Rhode Island recently reported its highest graduation rate on record. The state said 85.5% of students graduated on time during the 2025-26 school year.
Gov. Daniel J. McKee said the AP results reflect years of efforts to expand academic opportunities for students statewide.
“I’m thrilled that Rhode Island’s continued growth in AP participation and success demonstrates that more students are taking on rigorous academic challenges and achieving at higher levels,” McKee said. “These outcomes reflect years of intentional work to expand opportunities and ensure every student has access to an excellent education.”
Veer Mudambi is the special projects editor of the Providence Business News and covers the nonprofit and education sectors. He can be reached at Mudambi@PBN.com.
