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Understanding AP Biology Scoring
The AP Biology exam is scored in two parts, which are weighted to form a composite score that determines your final 1-5 grade. The two sections are:
- Section I: Multiple-Choice (MCQ): This section consists of 60 questions and accounts for 50% of your total exam score.
- Section II: Free-Response (FRQ): This section consists of 6 questions (2 long-response and 4 short-response) and also accounts for 50% of your exam score.
The Scoring Formula
Your composite score is calculated by combining the weighted scores from each section. While the exact weighting can vary slightly each year, a common model is:
Estimated Composite Score to AP Score Conversion (Varies by Year)
| Composite Score Range | AP Score |
|---|---|
| 114 – 150 | 5 |
| 98 – 113 | 4 |
| 80 – 97 | 3 |
| 62 – 79 | 2 |
| 0 – 61 | 1 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How accurate are these score predictions?
This calculator uses a common, representative model for scoring. However, the College Board does not release the exact scoring formula for each year's exam. The ranges for each 1-5 score can shift slightly from year to year based on the difficulty of the test. This tool should be used as a good estimation, not a guarantee.
Is guessing penalized on the multiple-choice section?
No. Since 2011, the College Board eliminated the penalty for incorrect answers on all AP exams. Your raw score for the multiple-choice section is simply the number of questions you answer correctly. Therefore, you should always try to answer every question, even if you have to guess.