MISD will require students to pay $25 to take each AP exam because the state and federal government stopped funding for the exams. This past school year the district paid thousands of dollars in unused tests and late fees.
“I plan on taking about 8 exams this year, plus the 1 for my brother, 9 exams can total up to over $200. $200 is money that could have gone in buying review books, flashcards, or other supplies to prepare for the exams themselves,” senior Phillip Ipock said. “Also in the mental sense, paying for the exams may make me motivated to study harder. It’ll be interesting to see how students respond to this change though.
MISD only started paying for the tests 11 years ago. Before, test-takers paid the full $94 whereas now they will only pay part. Students on free and reduced lunch will only pay $12.
“MISD encourages student choice, and the Advanced Academics department encourages students who are prepared, to meet the challenge of rigorous coursework to take AP courses,” MISD Academics Coordinator, Teresa Francis said. “We in no way, want to discourage students from taking AP classes and exams, and hope that the nominal fee is not a barrier to student success.”
