AP^® Biology Score Calculator

How Is The AP Biology Exam Structured?

The AP Biology exam consists of two main sections:

Total exam time: 3 hours

Section Details

• Section 1: Multiple Choice

  • 60 questions testing your knowledge of biology concepts

  • Includes both individual questions and sets of questions (4-5 questions per set)

• Section 2: Free Response

  • 2 long questions (8-10 points each)

    • Interpret and evaluate experimental results

    • Interpret and evaluate experimental results with graphing

  • 4 short questions (4 points each) assessing:

    • Scientific investigation

    • Conceptual analysis

    • Analysis of model or visual representation

    • Data analysis

Calculator Policy

A four-function (with square root), scientific, or graphing calculator may be used on the exam.

Students are permitted to use CollegeBoard's AP Biology Equations and Formulas Sheet on the exam. This resource is available in Appendix A of the CED.

Scoring Process

The AP Biology exam uses a weighted scoring system that combines your performance on both sections. The multiple-choice section accounts for 50% of your score, and the free-response section makes up the other 50%.

Your raw scores from each section are converted into a composite score, which is then converted to the final AP score of 1-5. The distribution of scores from the most recent exam was:

What Is A Good Score?

A score of 3 or higher is generally considered passing, though many top colleges only award credit for scores of 4 or 5. For college admissions purposes, a 4 or 5 is considered a strong score.

To earn a high score (4 or 5), students typically need to demonstrate:

• Strong understanding of biological concepts and principles

• Ability to analyze experimental data and results

• Skills in interpreting graphs, charts, and scientific models

• Clear scientific writing and communication

• Application of biological concepts to real-world scenarios