Advanced Placement (AP) Credit
Advanced Placement (AP) is a program administered by the College Board that allows high school students to complete college-level coursework and examinations. Many colleges and universities award college credit, course placement, or both to students who earn qualifying scores on AP exams. Students should consult their intended institution to determine how AP credit may apply to degree requirements and transfer plans.
Per the Illinois Board of Higher Education/IBHE
College Credit for Scores of 3 or Higher at all Illinois Public Institutions of Higher Education
Under Illinois law (Public Act 99-0358), students who earn a score of 3 or higher on a College Board Advanced Placement (AP) examination are entitled to receive post-secondary course credit at Illinois public colleges and universities. Public institutions must award credit for qualifying AP scores and apply that credit toward corresponding degree requirements in accordance with their established AP credit policies.
Students should consult their intended institution's AP credit policy to determine how specific exam scores will be awarded and applied to degree requirements.
For additional information about IBHE policies on Advanced Placement (AP) credit, please visit: IBHE and ICCB Report on AP/IB Credit
How does Advanced Placement Credit work with the Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI)?
The Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI) provides recommendations to participating institutions regarding the awarding of Advanced Placement (AP) credit. However, each college and university retains the authority to determine how AP credit is awarded and applied toward degree requirements.
Under Illinois law, public colleges and universities award credit for AP exam scores of 3 or higher. The type of credit awarded, however, varies by institution. For example, one institution may award credit for a specific course with a score of 3, while another may award elective credit for a score of 3 and require a score of 4 or 5 for direct course equivalency. Students should consult their intended transfer institution to understand how AP credit will be evaluated and applied to their degree program.