A New Choice for High Schoolers: College Board to Launch Two New AP Courses

Advanced Placement (AP) courses have long been a key way for high school students in the U.S. to enhance their academic competitiveness. Not only do AP courses offer college-level instruction, but strong AP exam scores can also earn students college credit—giving them an edge in college admissions.

In response to global developments in economics and technology, the College Board announced that two new AP courses will launch in 2026: AP Business with Personal Finance and AP Cybersecurity.

These additions reflect the shifting landscape of education and offer students new pathways to explore academic and career interests.

I. A Deep Dive into the New AP Courses

AP Business with Personal Finance

This course focuses on essential business concepts and personal financial literacy. Students will learn the fundamentals of business operations, how market economies work, the basics of saving and investing, budgeting, and credit management. Compared to traditional AP Economics courses, this one is more practical and closely tied to everyday life.

By taking this course, students not only gain insights into business logic but also develop money management skills and responsible consumer habits. It’s an ideal stepping stone for students interested in finance, economics, accounting, or business management.

AP Cybersecurity

In an era of rapid digitization and AI, cybersecurity has become a top challenge across industries. This course introduces students to the foundations of information security, including encryption, types of cyberattacks, defense strategies, and relevant laws and ethics.

This course comes at a time when demand for cybersecurity professionals is soaring. The U.S. job market for cybersecurity roles is expected to grow by more than 30% over the next decade. High school students who take AP Cybersecurity will gain early exposure to a critical and high-growth field, building a foundation for majors like computer science, information security, or AI.

II. How These Courses Can Boost College Applications

AP courses are a key factor in college admissions decisions, demonstrating academic rigor and personal interest.

• Business & Finance Applicants: Students aiming to apply to business schools or finance/economics programs will find AP Business with Personal Finance a valuable asset, showing initiative and relevant skill development.

• STEM Applicants: Students interested in computer science, IT, or cybersecurity will stand out with AP Cybersecurity on their transcript—it signals readiness and alignment with their intended major.

Students can also highlight these courses in their application essays or interviews, connecting what they learned to real-world interests or experiences—creating a distinctive and compelling narrative.

III. Long-Term Career Value

Business & Personal Finance

With the rise of fintech, students who understand money management and business strategy will be more prepared for today’s job market. Whether they go into accounting, investment, marketing, or entrepreneurship, this course offers a strong foundation.

Cybersecurity

From government agencies to tech companies, cybersecurity is a national priority. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, cybersecurity analysts earn over $100,000/year on average, and job openings far exceed the supply of qualified candidates. Learning cybersecurity early could even open the door to internships and job opportunities during college.

IV. How Students & Parents Can Prepare

1. Build a Strong FoundationBefore taking the new AP courses, students should strengthen their skills in economics, math, and computer science. Prior experience with AP Economics or AP Computer Science will be helpful.

2. Use Official ResourcesThe College Board will provide sample questions, curriculum guides, and teacher training. Keep an eye on their website for updates on exam structure and preparation tips.

3. Explore Learning Beyond the ClassroomStudents can deepen their understanding through business competitions, hackathons, or summer internships. These experiences can also enhance college applications.

4. Parental Support MattersParents should help students plan their AP course load thoughtfully. Balancing academic rigor with personal interests is key. For students targeting STEM or business majors, combining these new APs with other relevant courses can build a strong academic profile.

Launching in 2026, AP Business with Personal Finance and AP Cybersecurity are forward-thinking additions that reflect both educational and industry trends. The former equips students with financial literacy and business acumen, while the latter prepares them for the digital security challenges of tomorrow.

These courses won’t just enhance college applications—they may serve as pivotal career foundations. For students, this is a unique opportunity to align high school coursework with their personal goals and the future of work.

Whether your dream is to work on Wall Street or protect global data systems, these two new AP courses could be the first step toward that future.