More public school students in Hawaii are taking and passing Advanced Placement tests that are designed to help students prepare for college.

The courses and tests help students earn college credits and stand out in the college admission process.

The Hawaii Department of Education said Wednesday the number of students passing Advanced Placement tests increased 30 percent over the past four years.

Department of Education Deputy Superintendent Stephen Schatz says a greater proportion of students are earning passing scores on the rigorous exams.

More than 5,600 students took at least one AP exam in 2014-15 school year. That’s 9 percent more than the previous year.