Every July, students across the country log in to see their AP scores — the results of months of hard work. But understanding what those numbers mean, how they’re calculated, and how to use them can make the difference between just getting a score and turning that score into an opportunity.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- AP score release dates
- What each score means (1–5 scale)
- How scores are calculated
- How to use them for college credit and placement
- How RevisionDojo helps you maximize their value
When Are AP Scores Released?
The College Board typically releases AP scores in early to mid-July, rolling them out by state over several days.
You’ll need to:
- Log in to your College Board account.
- Select “AP Scores.”
- View and download your score report.
What Do AP Scores Mean?
AP exams are scored on a 1–5 scale:
- 5 — Extremely Well Qualified: Equivalent to an A in a college course.
- 4 — Well Qualified: Equivalent to an A-, B+, or B.
- 3 — Qualified: Equivalent to a B-, C+, or C.
- 2 — Possibly Qualified: Below the threshold most colleges accept for credit.
- 1 — No Recommendation: Doesn’t meet AP passing standards.
How Are AP Scores Calculated?
Each exam has a composite score made up of multiple-choice and free-response sections. This composite is then matched to the 1–5 scale.
For example:
- APUSH: MCQs + SAQs + DBQ + LEQ = composite score
- AP Calculus AB: MCQs + FRQs = composite score
The cut scores (the minimum composite needed for each AP score) vary slightly by year.
Why AP Scores Matter
AP scores can:
- Earn you college credit (saving money and time)
- Let you skip introductory courses
- Strengthen college applications by showing academic rigor
But — every college has different AP credit policies.
How RevisionDojo Helps You Use Your AP Scores
With RevisionDojo, you can:
- Check which universities accept your AP scores for credit
- Match your scores to courses you can skip
- Plan your applications around your AP results
- Use score calculators to predict results before release day
FAQ – AP Scores
1. Can I send my AP scores to colleges for free?
Yes — you can send one free score report each year if you select a college before the exam.
2. Do AP scores expire?
No — they remain on your College Board record indefinitely.
3. Can I withhold or cancel AP scores?
Yes — you can pay to withhold scores or request a cancellation.
4. What if my AP score is lower than expected?
You can retake the exam next year or focus on boosting your college application in other ways.
5. Where can I see which schools accept my AP scores?
Use RevisionDojo’s Universities Directory for an instant AP credit check.
Turn Your AP Scores Into College Credit
Don’t let your AP results sit unused — use them to get ahead.
🎯 Take the University Match Quiz to see which schools match your scores and career goals.
🌍 Browse the Universities Directory to check AP credit policies instantly.
