Support the AP Exam Fund for CPS Students
Reduce the equity gap in earning AP Credits
Help ensure every CPS student can access AP exams and the opportunities they unlock
Chicago Public Schools (CPS) has built one of the nation’s strongest Advanced Placement (AP) programs, expanding access and success for Black, Latinx, and low-income students. Since 2020, federal funds have allowed CPS to cover AP exam fees for all students, helping drive:
- 18.4% increase in AP students
- 23% increase in exams taken
- 10% increase in Black student enrollment
- 5.5% increase in Latinx student enrollment
These gains represent thousands of students earning early college credit, reducing tuition costs, and entering higher education better prepared to succeed.
Why Your Support Is Urgent
As federal funding ends, the district can no longer cover exam fees for all students. CPS will continue paying for all College Board fee-waiver–eligible exams (about 60% of AP students), but students just above the waiver threshold—or those taking multiple exams—may not be able to participate without additional support. Your donation helps bridge this gap and ensures that cost never prevents a student from taking an AP exam.
The Return on Investment
AP participation improves college readiness, enrollment, and persistence, especially for underrepresented students. In 2025 alone, CPS students earned:
- 28,328 qualifying scores (3+)
- 84,984 potential college credits
- $42.49M in potential tuition savings for Illinois families
The impact is immediate—college credits earned in high school—and long-term, with higher rates of college completion.
Join Us
By giving to the AP Exam Fund, you help CPS students stay on track for college and careers, protecting equity gains and opening doors to future opportunities.
About Children First Fund
Children First Fund (CFF), the Chicago Public Schools Foundation, is the philanthropic and partnership arm of Chicago Public Schools (CPS). It serves as a knowledge hub and liaison between CPS and its community of partners, securing and organizing resources that advance CPS’ mission to provide a high-quality public education that prepares every child in every neighborhood for success in college, career, and civic life. 90 cents of every dollar donated to Children First Fund directly supports CPS students, programs, and services. For more information, please visit https://www.childrenfirstfund.org or find us on social @ChiFirstFund.