DECA is excited to welcome College Board as its newest strategic partner for the 2025-26 school year.
This collaboration will expand opportunities for DECA members to prepare for life after high school by combining DECA’s focus on emerging leaders and entrepreneurs with the College Board’s expertise in developing programs that promote career and college readiness.
Best known for developing and administering standardized testing for college admissions and its Advanced Placement (AP) courses and exams for high school students, College Board helps over 7 million students a year bridge the gap from high school to college and career.
Through this partnership, DECA members will gain access to enhanced resources that support both academic and career success, including career and college planning tools. At the same time, advisors will benefit from access to training and resources to guide students on test preparation, scholarships, and admissions.
“Our partnership with the College Board reflects DECA’s shared mission to prepare the next generation of leaders with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to thrive. The College Board’s commitment to academic excellence and career readiness brings tremendous value to the entire DECA community—empowering our students, advisors, and industry partners alike,” said Sarah Cozewith, Chief Partnership Officer.
Looking ahead to the 2026-27 school year, College Board will release its newest AP course, AP Business with Personal Finance. This year-long course – which can lead to DECA members earning college credit and an employer-recognized credential – introduces students to the knowledge and skills they need to grow their careers, manage money, and prepare for the most popular college major in the U.S.
“The AP Business with Personal Finance course allows DECA members the possibility to receive the benefits of Advanced Placement for a Career and Technical Education course for the first time,” said Christopher Young, CAE, Chief Program Officer. “The course positions business and marketing education just as important as core academics, with the opportunities to earn a higher GPA and college credit while preparing for college and beyond.”
As the educational landscape evolves, DECA and the College Board are committed to helping students plan their future. This partnership ensures DECA members are equipped not only with the leadership and business skills developed through DECA, but also with the academic and career planning tools needed for success in college and beyond.
