APUSH Score Calculator

Multiple Choice Questions
Correct / 55
Short Answer Questions
Points / 9
Document-Based Question
Points / 7
Long Essay Question
Points / 6

What is the APUSH Exam?

The AP U.S. History (APUSH) Exam is a college-level assessment administered by the College Board that tests your knowledge of American history. It is divided into multiple sections designed to measure your ability to recall facts, analyze historical documents, and craft evidence-based essays.

How is the APUSH Exam Structured?

The APUSH Exam is divided into four sections, each contributing to your overall score:

  • Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs): 55 questions, each worth 1 point.
  • Short Answer Questions (SAQs): 3 questions, each worth up to 3 points.
  • Document-Based Question (DBQ): 1 essay, scored out of 7 points.
  • Long Essay Question (LEQ): 1 essay, scored out of 6 points.

Each section is weighted differently to calculate the composite score, which determines your final AP score on a scale of 1 to 5.

How is the Composite Score Calculated?

The composite score is a weighted total of all sections on the exam:

  • MCQs: Multiply the raw score by 1.09.
  • SAQs: Multiply the raw score by 3.33.
  • DBQ: Multiply the raw score by 7.14.
  • LEQ: Multiply the raw score by 5.5.

Use the APUSH Score Calculator above to determine your estimated composite score and corresponding AP score.

What Does My AP Score Mean?

AP scores range from 1 to 5 and reflect your mastery of the course material:

  • 5: Extremely well-qualified (equivalent to an A in a college course).
  • 4: Well-qualified (equivalent to an A-/B+).
  • 3: Qualified (equivalent to a B-/C+).
  • 2: Possibly qualified.
  • 1: No recommendation.

Most colleges accept scores of 3 or higher for credit, but policies vary by institution.

Limitations of the AP Score Calculator

While this calculator provides an estimate of your score, the actual scoring process by the College Board involves additional adjustments, including curve scaling. Other factors that may affect your score include:

  • Difficulty of the specific year's exam.
  • Adjustments to weighting and score conversion.
  • Evaluator discretion for free-response sections.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is this calculator accurate?

A: This calculator provides a close estimate based on historical data, but it is not an official tool from the College Board.

Q: How can I improve my AP score?

A: Focus on understanding key historical themes, practicing essay writing, and completing practice exams to familiarize yourself with the format.

Q: What happens if I score a 1 or 2?

A: While colleges may not award credit for these scores, they still demonstrate your effort and preparation for college-level coursework.