How Do They Score the AP Tests?

Hey guys, after taking my AP Stats test I'm just wondering: how exactly do they calculate the scores? Does each question worth the same? How are free-response questions factored in?

The scoring for AP exams consists of two sections: the multiple-choice section and the free-response section. Here's a basic breakdown of how each section is scored:

1. Multiple-Choice Section: Each question in this section is worth one point, but note that the weightage in your final AP score varies depending on the test. For example, for the Statistics AP, this section contributes to 50% of your final score.

2. Free-Response Section: This section also contributes 50% of your AP Statistics score. The graders use a rubric to evaluate your responses, awarding points for specific correct answers, methodologies, or processes. Becoming familiar with the test-specific rubric can be beneficial. There are usually more points available than the total number of points that could be earned, providing room for some error while still achieving a perfect score.

These raw points are then weighted and combined to give you a composite score. This composite score is then converted into a scaled score on the AP 1-5 scale, where 5 is the best possible score.

Due to variations among different versions of the test and slight differences from year to year, the exact number of raw points needed to achieve a certain AP score (like a 5) on your particular exam could slightly differ.

All of this scoring process is done to ensure fairness and standardization among all test-takers. So, yes, your free-response questions hold considerable gravity too!