AP Physics Score Calculator
Estimate your AP Physics exam score (1-5) for AP Physics 1, AP Physics 2, and AP Physics C exams based on official College Board scoring guidelines.
Free Response Questions
Your Predicted AP Score
Score Breakdown
Score Interpretation
Score Calculation Method
Select an exam and enter your scores to see the calculation method.
AP Physics 1 Scoring
- MC (50 questions): 50% of score
- FRQ (5 questions): 50% of score
- FRQ Types: Experimental Design (12 pts), QQ Translation (12 pts), 3 Short Answer (7 pts each)
- Total FRQ Points: 45
AP Physics C Scoring
- MC (35 questions): 50% of score
- FRQ (3 questions): 50% of score
- Each FRQ: 15 points
- Total FRQ Points: 45
Score Conversion (1-5)
- 5: 70-100% (Extremely qualified)
- 4: 56-69% (Well qualified)
- 3: 42-55% (Qualified)
- 2: 28-41% (Possibly qualified)
- 1: 0-27% (No recommendation)
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the AP Physics score calculated?
Your AP Physics score is calculated by combining your multiple-choice and free-response scores with specific weightings: Multiple Choice (50%) and Free Response (50%). The raw score is converted to a composite score (0-100), which is then mapped to the final 1-5 AP score.
What is a good AP Physics score?
A score of 3 is considered passing and may qualify for college credit at many schools. Selective universities typically require a 4 or 5. The national average for AP Physics 1 is around 2.8-3.0, while AP Physics C averages are slightly higher (3.2-3.5).
How are FRQs scored on AP Physics?
AP Physics FRQs are scored on detailed rubrics with partial credit. AP Physics 1 & 2 have 5 FRQs (total 45 points), while AP Physics C has 3 FRQs (total 45 points). Points are awarded for correct reasoning, proper use of equations, and accurate calculations, not just final answers.
Do I need a calculator for AP Physics?
Yes, a graphing calculator is allowed for the entire AP Physics exam. It is especially useful for the multiple-choice section and for complex calculations in the free-response section. Both sections are calculator-active.
What topics are most heavily tested on AP Physics 1?
AP Physics 1 focuses on: Kinematics (10-15%), Dynamics (15-20%), Circular Motion & Gravitation (6-10%), Energy (15-20%), Momentum (10-15%), Simple Harmonic Motion (6-10%), Torque & Rotational Motion (10-15%), and Electric Charge & DC Circuits (6-10%).
What's the difference between AP Physics 1 and AP Physics C?
AP Physics 1 is algebra-based and covers introductory mechanics, while AP Physics C is calculus-based and covers mechanics or electricity/magnetism in greater depth. AP Physics C is typically taken by students with a stronger math background and is often required for engineering majors.
Is AP Physics 2 harder than AP Physics 1?
AP Physics 2 covers different topics (fluids, thermodynamics, optics, modern physics) and is generally considered comparable in difficulty to AP Physics 1. Both require strong problem-solving skills and conceptual understanding.
How many students get a 5 on AP Physics?
AP Physics 1 has historically one of the lowest 5 rates (≈5-8%). AP Physics C has higher 5 rates (≈25-30%) due to the self-selecting nature of students taking calculus-based physics. Use our calculator to estimate your potential score based on practice tests.
What's on the AP Physics C formula sheet?
The AP Physics C exam provides a formula sheet with common equations for mechanics, electricity, and magnetism. However, you still need to know when and how to apply these equations. The formula sheet does not include every equation you might need.