Massachusetts' students are truly a cut above the rest! The Bay State's public high schoolers have consistently proven their mettle, achieving the highest Advanced Placement (AP) test scores in the nation. This remarkable feat was announced by state officials, highlighting the exceptional academic prowess of Massachusetts' youth.
In a statement released by Governor Maura Healey's office, the results from the College Board revealed that an impressive 36% of public high school graduates last year scored a 3 or higher on an AP exam. This is not only the highest proportion for any state this year but also sets a new record for Massachusetts. A score of 3 or higher signifies a student's capability to handle introductory-level college work, and many colleges recognize this achievement by awarding course credits.
The nationwide average for public high school graduates scoring a 3 or higher on AP tests last year was just under 25%, a significant 15-point difference from Massachusetts' tally. This achievement is even more impressive when considering the state's long-term upward trend. Between 2015 and 2025, the percentage of Massachusetts graduates scoring 3 or higher increased from 29% to almost 36%, a steady improvement over the decade.
Massachusetts' commitment to education is further evident in the number of students taking AP exams. Nearly half of all 2025 graduates sat for an AP exam during high school, ranking third in the country, just behind Washington, D.C., and New York. This trend is particularly encouraging as it indicates a broader access to advanced coursework and opportunities for students.
The diversity of students taking AP exams is also noteworthy. More than 37% of Black or African American graduates took an AP exam, a substantial increase of 7.5 percentage points from 2015. Similarly, the percentage of Hispanic or Latino graduates taking AP exams rose to a comparable level, up from 28% in 2015. This inclusivity in advanced education is a testament to the state's efforts to provide equal opportunities for all students.
Governor Healey expressed her pride in the students' achievements, stating, "We are so proud that our students are yet again leading the nation in AP scores and breaking all-time records." Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll emphasized the benefits of advanced classes, noting that they "give students a leg up on college, preparing them for rigorous coursework and potentially earning them college credit, which helps them graduate more quickly and at a lower cost."
Massachusetts' success in AP test scores is a testament to the state's dedication to education and its students' hard work and talent. This story will be updated as more information becomes available, but for now, it's clear that Massachusetts is setting the bar high for academic excellence.
