What’s a “Good” AP Score?

Discover what constitutes a “good” AP score. Learn how AP scores impact college credit, admissions, and your readiness for higher education.

Determining what qualifies as a “good” AP score depends on your individual goals, whether it’s earning college credit, enhancing your college application, or assessing your preparedness for college-level coursework.

Understanding the AP Score Scale

AP Exams are scored on a 5-point scale:

  • 5: Extremely well qualified
  • 4: Very well qualified
  • 3: Qualified
  • 2: Possibly qualified
  • 1: No recommendation

Many U.S. colleges grant credit or advanced placement for scores of 3 and above. However, policies vary by institution, so it’s essential to check the specific requirements of the colleges you’re interested in.

AP Scores and College Credit

Achieving a score of 3 or higher on an AP Exam can potentially earn you college credit or allow you to skip introductory courses. This can save time and money in your college education. To understand how your AP scores translate into college credit, utilize the AP Credit Policy Search tool provided by the College Board.

AP Scores and College Admissions

Taking AP courses and exams demonstrates to colleges that you’re willing to challenge yourself with rigorous coursework. Completing AP exams, regardless of the score, can positively impact your college applications. According to the College Board, 85% of selective colleges and universities report that a student’s AP experience favorably impacts admissions decisions.

AP Scores and College Readiness

Beyond college credit and admissions, AP scores can indicate your readiness for college-level work. Students who earn AP Exam scores of 1 or 2 often show improvement in subsequent AP Exams and are more likely to attend college and graduate on time compared to those who did not take AP Exams. Additionally, over 90% of first-year college students who scored a 2 on an AP Exam reported doing well or very well in college courses covering similar content.

Conclusion

A “good” AP score varies based on your objectives. Whether it’s earning college credit, enhancing your college application, or gauging your preparedness for college, AP scores play a significant role. Remember, the experience of preparing for and taking AP Exams equips you with valuable skills that contribute to your success in higher education.