Congratulations to Central High School, which was named to the 2023 AP School Honor Roll! The AP School Honor Roll recognizes schools whose AP program is delivering results and broadening access for students.

Schools can earn the Honor Roll recognition annually based on their ability to increase their school’s college-going culture, to provide opportunities for students to earn college credit, and maximize college readiness. The AP School Honor Roll offers four levels of distinction: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum.

Central is a silver member of the Honor Roll. Central had 50% of seniors who took at least one AP exam during high school, 35% of seniors scoring three or higher on at least one AP exam, and 13% of seniors who took five or more AP exams!

Central High School has 20 teachers who teach 18 AP Courses with a total of 49 sections.

The Advanced Placement Program (AP) began at Central in 1994. AP coursework allows students to dig deeper into specific subjects that interest them while developing their creativity and problem-solving skills. AP classes cover a wide range of topics representative of college study in a particular subject, and offer the opportunity to obtain college credit while at Central.

Central provides a variety of AP offerings for 9th-12th grade students. Teachers design the course while meeting Collegeboard instructional standards, ensuring the class can be tailor-fit for the school in which it is offered.

AP classes provide a commitment to advanced curriculum, both in pace and content. There is no entrance requirement, although a prerequisite course may be necessary in preparation for the AP class. The student should be academically ready and highly motivated to engage in the rigors of the scope and depth of the AP course.

AP courses are standardized by The College Board. Exams are administered in May and graded externally. If students test well, college credits are awarded at nearly all colleges in the United States and Canada (see link below).

Many students ask "What is the difference between AP and IB?" A comparison of AP and IB is found by clicking the link on the right side bar. Also, find links to a few Minnesota colleges and universities' course award policies for AP and IB.

For answers to more specific Advanced Placement questions, follow the links below: 

Will my college/university accept my scores? AP Credit Policy Search

What are the benefits of taking an AP course?

AP Exams Offered at Central

AP Exam Format 

AP Recognition at Graduation

Central's AP Program Video

College Board AP information

AP Coordinator: Joleen Armstrong 

AP Registrar: Lisa Houdek

• joleen.armstrong@stpaul.k12.mn.us  
• lisa.houdek@stpaul.k12.mn.us

*Students not currently enrolled at Central High School are allowed to test only for AP courses offered at Central.