As you begin thinking about 2026–27, AP Business with Personal Finance can be a powerful addition to your business program. The course blends real-world business applications, personal finance skills and project-based learning, which naturally complement DECA.
If you’re considering offering the course next fall, here are six steps to help you get started.
Step 1: Start sharing information about AP Business with Personal Finance.
Strong enrollment starts with awareness. Now is a great time to introduce the course to students, families and administrators as they think about next year’s schedules.
These resources can help you explain the value and fit:
- About AP Business with Personal Finance
- Teaching AP for the First Time?
- DECA + College Board: AP Business with Personal Finance Webinar
- Even a short conversation with students in your current classes can begin building interest.
Step 2: Review the Course and Exam Description (CED).
The Course and Exam Description (CED) is your roadmap. It outlines the required content, skills, learning objectives and the structure of the AP Exam, so you can clearly see what students will learn and how they’ll demonstrate it.
The CED also includes ready-to-use supports: also includes ready-to-use supports:
- Guide to Teaching with Cases
- Business Canvas Project Guide
- Financial Advisor Project Guide
If it would be helpful to talk through scope and sequence, pacing or how this fits into your existing program, you can schedule a free 1:1 Zoom conversation with a course content expert.
Step 3: Work with your administration to secure approval.
If you decide the course is a good fit, the next step is adding AP Business with Personal Finance to your 2026–27 course catalog.
Because course codes, graduation requirements, and CTE alignment are determined locally, you’ll want to confirm details with your administration or district office. Many teachers find it helpful to begin these conversations early in the spring.
Step 4: Initiate the AP Course Audit.
To label the course “AP,” you’ll complete the AP Course Audit. This process confirms alignment with curricular requirements and ensures students can receive the AP designation on transcripts.
You can initiate the Course Audit to officially begin your journey as an AP Business with Personal Finance teacher.
Learn how the Course Audit works for AP Business with Personal Finance.
Step 5: Request an AP participant grant.
Professional learning is one of the best ways to feel confident launching a new AP course.
If you don’t receive professional learning funding from your school, district, or association, you can request a grant to cover AP Summer Institute (APSI) tuition. You’ll need to create or log in to your College Board educator account to complete the request form. The request form will remain open through June or until funds are distributed.
Learn more about this opportunity.
Step 6: Register for an AP Summer Institute (APSI).
AP Business with Personal Finance teachers can attend an in-person or online APSI that fits their schedule. APSIs provide 30 hours of project-focused professional learning and ongoing support during the school year. Teachers who attend will receive detailed project based learning guides to support implementation from day one.
If you’ve requested an AP participation grant, please wait to receive your registration code before registering. You can search the APSI calendar to find an option that works for you. Dates and locations will continue to be added through the end of May based on demand.
Additional Reminders
DECA advisors can watch the DECA webinar recording to hear DECA advisor discuss field-testing experiences and DECA alignment.
To receive updates and implementation resources, complete the course interest form.
We’re excited about what this course can mean for your students, and for the continued growth of your business and DECA programs. Please reach out if we can support you as you plan for next year.
