Last Updated: January 6, 2025
The AP English Literature and Composition exam consists of two sections. Section 1 includes multiple choice questions, while Section 2 contains three free-response questions. The exam is scored on a scale of 1 - 5, with a 5 being the highest possible score.
The scores in this calculator are estimates based on previous scoring curves. The actual scoring curve may vary year to year.
Instructions
Enter your scores for each section using the sliders below to calculate your estimated AP score.
Section 1: Multiple Choice
Section 2: Free Response Question 1 (Poetry Analysis)
Section 2: Free Response Question 2 (Prose Analysis)
Section 2: Free Response Question 3 (Literary Argument)
PREDICTED AP® SCORE
0 | Score range: 1 - 5
SECTION SCORES
Multiple Choice Score
0 / 45
Free Response Score
0 / 55
Combined Composite Score
0 / 100
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The AP English Literature and Composition exam consists of two main sections with the following structure:
| Section | Question Type | Time | Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Section 1 | Multiple Choice | 1 hour | 55 questions |
| Section 2 | Free Response | 2 hours | 3 questions |
Total exam time: 3 hours
Section 1 (Multiple Choice)
55 questions testing your ability to analyze literary texts
Questions focus on interpreting passages from prose, poetry, and drama
Includes analysis of literary elements, themes, and techniques
Section 2 (Free Response)
Question 1: Poetry Analysis Essay (6 points)
Question 2: Prose Analysis Essay (6 points)
Question 3: Literary Argument Essay (6 points)
40 minutes suggested writing time for each essay
The AP English Literature and Composition exam uses a weighted scoring system that combines your performance on both the multiple-choice and free-response sections. The multiple-choice section accounts for 45% of your score, while the free-response section makes up 55%.
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:
| AP English Literature Score | Percentage of Students |
|---|---|
| 5 | 13.7% |
| 4 | 26.9% |
| 3 | 31.8% |
| 2 | 16.5% |
| 1 | 11.1% |
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 for most colleges.
To earn a high score (4 or 5), students typically need to demonstrate sophisticated literary analysis skills, including the ability to analyze complex texts, understand literary devices and techniques, and write well-organized, insightful essays that show deep understanding of literary works.
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