How to Calculate Your AP Lang Score
Calculating your score on the AP English Language and Composition exam requires understanding how the College Board weights the multiple-choice section versus the free-response questions (FRQs). The entire exam is scaled to a composite score out of 150 points, which is then translated into the final 1 through 5 AP score.
- MC = Multiple Choice correct answers (out of 45).
- FRQ = Total sum of your 3 essay scores (out of 18).
Note: The multiple-choice section accounts for 45% of your total score (67.5 points max), while the three essays account for the remaining 55% (82.5 points max).
In 2020, the College Board updated the essay rubrics. Instead of a holistic 1-9 scale, each of the three essays (Synthesis, Rhetorical Analysis, and Argument) is now graded on a 6-point analytic rubric: 1 point for the thesis, 4 points for evidence and commentary, and 1 point for sophistication.
| Composite Score Range | AP Score | College Equivalence |
|---|---|---|
| 112 – 150 | 5 | Extremely well qualified (A) |
| 98 – 111 | 4 | Well qualified (A-, B+, B) |
| 82 – 97 | 3 | Qualified (B-, C+, C) |
| 65 – 81 | 2 | Possibly qualified |
| 0 – 64 | 1 | No recommendation |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the College Board penalize for guessing on the multiple-choice?
No. The College Board eliminated the guessing penalty for AP exams. Your multiple-choice score is based strictly on the number of questions you answer correctly. You should never leave a question blank on the AP Lang exam; always guess if you run out of time.
What is a passing score for AP Lang?
A score of 3 or higher is generally considered "passing" and is accepted by many colleges and universities for introductory English credit. However, highly selective institutions may require a 4 or a 5 to grant college credit or allow you to bypass freshman composition courses.
Do the score cutoffs change every year?
Yes. The College Board equates the exam each year to ensure that a "5" represents the same level of mastery regardless of the specific test form's difficulty. Because of this curve, the exact cutoffs fluctuate slightly from year to year. Our calculator uses established historical averages to estimate your score.