New Hampshire Ranks Second Nationally in AP Exam Success

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  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. -ranks-second-nationally-in-ap-exam-success.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Tuesday, March 3rd 2026 at 21:22 GMT by Eagle-Tribune
      Locale: UNITED STATES

CONCORD, NH - March 4th, 2026 - New Hampshire continues to cement its position as a national leader in education, with recent data revealing the state ranks second in the nation for student performance on Advanced Placement (AP) exams. The findings, released last week by the College Board, showcase a consistent upward trend in AP success rates, signaling a robust and effective educational system.

According to the report, an impressive 75.3% of New Hampshire students who took an AP exam in 2025 achieved a score of 3 or higher. This figure represents a significant increase from 73.2% in 2022 and 67.4% in 2019, demonstrating the state's ongoing commitment to academic excellence. Only Indiana surpassed New Hampshire, posting a score of 76.6%, while Massachusetts followed closely behind in third place with 74.5%.

AP exams are a cornerstone of college preparation for many high school students. Administered by the College Board, these standardized tests evaluate a student's understanding of material equivalent to a first-year college course. A score of 3, 4, or 5 on an AP exam is widely accepted by colleges and universities as evidence of college-level competency, often translating into course credit and advanced placement opportunities for students.

Frank Edelblut, Commissioner of the New Hampshire Department of Education, hailed the results as a direct reflection of the dedication of both students and educators. "This achievement is a testament to the hard work and commitment of our students and teachers," Edelblut stated. "Our state's focus on providing a high-quality, equitable education for all students is clearly paying off."

Beyond the impressive pass rates, New Hampshire also boasts one of the highest AP participation rates in the country. More than 51% of New Hampshire students engaged with AP coursework and took at least one exam last year, indicating a strong culture of academic rigor and a desire to challenge oneself with advanced learning opportunities. This widespread participation further underscores the accessibility of AP programs throughout the state's school system.

A Deeper Look at the Success Factors

While the report highlights the outcome, experts point to several factors contributing to New Hampshire's consistent success. These include a long-standing commitment to local control of education, allowing schools to tailor curricula to meet the specific needs of their students. The state also invests heavily in professional development for teachers, ensuring educators are equipped with the latest pedagogical strategies and content knowledge.

Another key element is the focus on early college awareness and preparation. Many New Hampshire high schools offer dual enrollment programs, allowing students to earn college credit while still in high school. This exposure to college-level coursework helps bridge the gap between high school and higher education, preparing students for the challenges of a university environment. Furthermore, strong partnerships between schools and local businesses provide students with real-world learning experiences and career pathways.

Implications for the Future

The continued success in AP performance has significant implications for New Hampshire's future workforce and economic competitiveness. A highly educated population attracts businesses, fosters innovation, and strengthens the state's overall economic vitality. The ability to attract and retain a skilled workforce is becoming increasingly crucial in today's rapidly changing global landscape.

Looking ahead, the New Hampshire Department of Education is exploring ways to further expand access to AP coursework, particularly for students from underrepresented backgrounds. Initiatives are underway to provide additional support and resources to schools with high populations of students from low-income families. The goal is to ensure that all students, regardless of their socioeconomic status, have the opportunity to excel in AP and pursue their college and career aspirations.

Commissioner Edelblut emphasized the department's commitment to continued improvement. "We are proud of our students' accomplishments, but we are not complacent," he said. "We will continue to work tirelessly to provide all New Hampshire students with the education they need to succeed in the 21st century." The state is also analyzing data to identify areas where students may be struggling and to develop targeted interventions to address those challenges.

This consistent high performance on AP exams reinforces New Hampshire's reputation as a state that prioritizes education and invests in the future of its students.