If you fail an AP exam, are there any major repercussions?

I'm trying to keep the stress levels low, but I've gotta ask – if someone bombs an AP exam, does it mess up college chances or is it not that big of a deal?

Firstly, it's great that you're looking to manage your stress levels, because that is just as important as the test itself! Now to answer your question – failing an AP exam is certainly not ideal, but it doesn't spell disaster for your college admissions chances. Colleges don't receive your AP scores unless you choose to send them. As such, a low score doesn't become part of your official high school transcript.

However, a passing score on AP exams can sometimes earn you college credits, depending on the college and the score you receive. If you don't pass, you simply miss out on potentially earning those credits. Keep in mind, the fact that you're challenging yourself with AP courses speaks well to your work ethic and readiness for college-level work – colleges do like to see that! I would suggest focusing on doing your best, but remember that one exam won't define your entire academic career or college admissions journey. Keep things in perspective!