This article originally appeared in the September 2025 Issue of Pasco Post.

AP Capstone Diploma & Florida Bright Futures Scholarship

We are excited to share important information about the Advanced Placement (AP) Capstone Diploma Program and recent legislative updates that may impact your student’s eligibility for the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program.

The AP Capstone Diploma Program is a prestigious College Board program that equips students with independent research, collaborative teamwork, and communication skills. It consists of two foundational courses—AP Seminar and AP Research—plus four additional AP courses. Students who earn scores of 3 or higher in both AP Seminar and AP Research, along with four additional AP Exams, are awarded the AP Capstone Diploma.

Florida House Bill 1105 authorizes the use of the AP Capstone designation to meet specific diploma eligibility requirements for the Florida Academic Scholars (FAS) award under the Bright Futures Scholarship Program.

It is important to note that earning the AP Capstone designation does not replace the requirements for earning a standard high school diploma.

To qualify for the Florida Academic Scholars award through the AP Capstone Diploma pathway for students who began high school prior to the 2025–2026 school year (current 10th, 11th, and 12th graders), students must achieve:

• A score of 3 or higher in AP Seminar and AP Research
• Scores of 3 or higher on four additional AP Exams of the student’s choice

To qualify for the Florida Academic Scholars award through the AP Capstone Diploma pathway for students who begin high school in 2025–2026 and beyond (current 9th graders and future students), students must achieve:

• A score of 3 or higher in AP Seminar and AP Research
• Scores of 3 or higher on three AP Exams that satisfy graduation requirements in English Language Arts, Math, Science, or Social Studies
• A score of 3 or higher on one additional AP Exam of the student’s choice

We are committed to supporting your students’ academic journey and ensuring they have access to the opportunities that best prepare them for college and beyond. If you have any questions about the AP Capstone Program or Bright Futures eligibility, please don’t hesitate to contact your student’s school counselor.

The AP Capstone Diploma Program is offered at the following schools:

• Cypress Creek High School
• J.W. Mitchell High School
• Pasco eSchool
• River Ridge High School
• Sunlake High School
• Wesley Chapel High School
• Wiregrass Ranch High School