AP Chemistry Exam Grading Scale System?

Hi everyone! Could someone explain how the AP Chemistry exam is graded? Like, what's the scale system they use, and how are the scores converted? Any info would be greatly appreciated!

Hi! The AP Chemistry exam, like other AP exams, is scored on a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being the highest possible score. Here's a general breakdown of the scoring system:

1. Raw Score Calculation: The exam consists of two sections: multiple-choice and free-response questions (FRQs). The multiple-choice section has 60 questions, and each correct answer is worth 1 point. The FRQ section consists of 7 questions (3 long and 4 short). Each long FRQ is typically worth 10 points, and each short FRQ is usually worth 4 points. Therefore, the FRQ section is worth a total of 40 points. Once you've completed the exam, your raw score is calculated by adding the points you earned on each section.

2. Conversion to Composite Score: Your raw score is then converted to a composite score, which is the sum of the weighted multiple-choice section score and the weighted FRQ section score. The multiple-choice section accounts for 50% of your composite score, and the FRQ section makes up the other 50%. To find your composite score, multiply your raw multiple-choice score by 1.5 and your raw FRQ score by 1.875, then add the two numbers together.

3. Final AP Score: Finally, your composite score is converted to an AP score (1 through 5), which is determined by the College Board based on the scores of all students taking the AP Chemistry exam that year. The exact conversion varies each year because it depends on the overall performance of all students that year. However, in general, a composite score of around 75% or higher often corresponds to a 5, while a score below 50% usually results in a 1 or 2.

Keep in mind that these are approximate guidelines and that the actual score conversion might be slightly different each year. You can find practice exams and conversion tables online to help you practice and get a better idea of how your raw scores might translate to an AP score. Good luck with your AP Chemistry exam!