How Much Does an AP Exam Cost?

Every fall, millions of students around the world begin taking AP classes. Enrolling in an AP class and completing an AP Exam gives you the opportunity to stand out to colleges and scholarship organizations, as well as earn college credit, advanced placement, or both.

Earning college credit or advanced placement while you are still in high school can save you time and money in the future. You’ll need to complete an AP Exam and earn a qualifying score (which varies by college)—so make sure you register for your AP Exam(s) by the fall deadline.

Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about registering and paying for AP Exams:

What does an AP Exam cost?

For the 2023-24 school year, the cost for most AP Exams at schools in the U.S., U.S. territories, Canada, and DoDEA schools is $98. The cost is $128 per exam at schools everywhere else (Note: Fees may vary for exams at College Board–authorized test centers outside the U.S.).

The fee for AP Capstone™ Exams (AP Seminar and AP Research) is $146 per exam for all students regardless of location. Many states use federal and state funding to further reduce or cover AP Exam fees for some or all students. As a result, the final amount a student pays is set by the state, school, or district. Check with your AP teacher or AP coordinator to confirm if there are costs for you to complete AP Exams.

What if I need AP Exam fee assistance?

College Board provides AP Exam fee reductions for eligible students with financial need.

You may qualify for the reduced rate if your family’s annual income falls within the Income Eligibility Guidelines set by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service or are eligible for free school meals. Talk with your school counselor to determine if you qualify.

Many states also use federal and state funding to further reduce the exam fee or completely cover the costs for some or all students. The fee assistance guidelines by state varies. Check with your AP teacher, AP coordinator, or school counselor to find out what support may be available to you.

How do I register and pay for my AP Exams?

You’ll register for your AP Exams through your school. Your AP coordinator will collect any fees that you owe. Schools have until November 15 to let College Board know which students are testing—but schools often set an earlier deadline for students.

For students who are homeschooled or attend a school that does not offer the AP Exam they wish to take, learn more about how to register here.

Is taking an AP Exam worth it?

The average college course at an in-state public university costs $1,100 and an average of $2,700 for out-of-state [1]. By completing an AP Exam and potentially earning college credit, you could save thousands of dollars on college tuition.

In addition to the possibility of earning college credit, completing an AP Exam shows colleges you’re willing to challenge yourself by completing college-level coursework. Research shows that students who take AP courses and exams often have better college outcomes than their peers. Talk to your AP teacher and AP coordinator today about registering and paying for your AP Exams.

[1] Trends in College Pricing and Student Aid 2022, New York: College Board