What Is a Good AP Score, and Will It Earn College Credit?
Last updated:
AP exams are scored from 1 to 5. A 3 is considered passing and earns credit at many colleges, while selective colleges often require a 4 or 5. Credit policies are set by each college and can differ by subject, so check the AP credit policy of each school on your list.
What each AP score means
| Score | College Board description | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | Extremely well qualified | Credit at most colleges |
| 4 | Very well qualified | Credit at most colleges |
| 3 | Qualified | Credit at many colleges |
| 2 | Possibly qualified | Rarely earns credit |
| 1 | No recommendation | No credit |
Key AP dates and rules
- AP exams are held over two weeks in May.
- Scores are usually released in early July.
- Your free score send goes to one college or scholarship program you choose in My AP, usually by June 20.
- You can ask the College Board to withhold or cancel a score before it is sent.
Do AP scores matter for admissions?
AP course grades matter more than AP exam scores for admissions, because they show the rigor of your schedule. Strong exam scores still help, especially at colleges that ask you to self-report them, and they can save time and tuition through credit or placement.