AP Physics 2 Score Calculator
Estimate your AP Physics 2 exam score based on multiple choice and free response performance. Updated for 2026 exam with official College Board weighting.
FRQ Breakdown (Optional)
Your AP Score
Composite Score
Section Breakdown
Score Interpretation
Select your scores above to see detailed interpretation.
Unit Weighting (2026 Exam)
| Unit 1: Fluids | 10-12% |
| Unit 2: Thermodynamics | 12-15% |
| Unit 3: Electric Force & Field | 10-12% |
| Unit 4: Electric Circuits | 10-12% |
| Unit 5: Magnetism | 10-12% |
| Unit 6: Geometric Optics | 10-12% |
| Unit 7: Quantum Physics | 10-12% |
| Unit 8: Nuclear Physics | 8-10% |
Score Requirements by College
- MIT: 5 recommended
- Harvard: 5 for credit
- Stanford: 4+ for credit
- UC Berkeley: 3+ for credit
- Most State Schools: 3+ for credit
Exam Format
- Section I: 50 MC questions (90 min)
- Section II: 4 FRQs (90 min)
- FRQ 1: Experimental Design (12 pts)
- FRQ 2: Qualitative/Quantitative (12 pts)
- FRQ 3-4: Short Answer (8 pts each)
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the AP Physics 2 score calculated?
Your AP Physics 2 score is calculated as: (Multiple Choice Score × 1.2) + (FRQ Score × 1.25) = Composite Score out of 120. The composite is then converted to a 1-5 AP score using cut points determined by the College Board each year.
What is the average AP Physics 2 score?
The average AP Physics 2 score is typically around 3.0-3.2. About 60-65% of students score a 3 or higher. It's considered one of the more challenging AP science exams.
What is a good AP Physics 2 score?
A score of 3 is considered passing and qualifies for college credit at many schools. Selective universities typically require a 4 or 5. A score of 5 is excellent and demonstrates mastery of the material.
How are FRQs scored in AP Physics 2?
Each FRQ has a detailed rubric worth 8-12 points. FRQs are scored holistically based on the correctness of your reasoning, use of physics principles, and clarity of explanation. Partial credit is generously awarded for correct reasoning even if the final answer is wrong.
What topics are most heavily tested?
All units are fairly evenly weighted, but Thermodynamics (12-15%) and Fluids (10-12%) are slightly higher. Electric circuits and magnetism together make up about 20% of the exam.
How many multiple choice questions do I need to get right for a 5?
To earn a 5, you typically need a composite score of 85-90% (about 102-108 out of 120 points). With excellent FRQ performance, you could score a 5 with as few as 35-40 correct MC questions.
Is a calculator allowed on AP Physics 2?
Yes! A scientific or graphing calculator is allowed for the entire exam. The AP Physics 2 exam includes calculations, so having a good calculator is essential.
How does AP Physics 2 compare to AP Physics 1?
AP Physics 2 covers different topics (fluids, thermodynamics, optics, modern physics) rather than building directly on Physics 1. Many students take both exams, as they complement each other well.