Last Updated: March 28, 2026
The AP Physics 2 exam consists of two sections: multiple choice and 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. Also check out our calculators for AP Physics 1, AP Physics C: Mechanics, and AP Physics C: E&M.
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
Mathematical Routines Question
Translation Between Representations Question
Experimental Design and Analysis Question
Qualitative/Quantitative Translation Question
PREDICTED AP® SCORE
0 | Score range: 1 - 5
SECTION SCORES
Multiple Choice Score
0 / 40
Free Response Score
0 / 40
Combined Composite Score
0 / 80
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The AP Physics 2 exam consists of two main sections:
| Section | Question Type | Time | Questions | Exam Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Section 1 | Multiple Choice | 1 hour 20 minutes | 40 questions | 50% |
| Section 2 | Free Response | 1 hour 40 minutes | 4 questions | 50% |
Total exam time: 3 hours
Students may use a four-function, scientific, or graphing calculator on both sections of the exam. An equations sheet is provided for use throughout the exam.
Each section is worth 40 raw points, for a total composite score out of 80.
| AP Score | Composite Score Range | Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 58–80 | Extremely Well Qualified |
| 4 | 48–57 | Well Qualified |
| 3 | 33–47 | Qualified |
| 2 | 18–32 | Possibly Qualified |
| 1 | 0–17 | No Recommendation |
These cutoffs are estimates based on historical data. View score ranges for all AP exams on our AP Score Range page.
AP Physics 2 has a relatively strong pass rate, with over 70% of students scoring a 3 or higher:
| AP Physics 2 Score | Percentage of Students |
|---|---|
| 5 | 19.1% |
| 4 | 18.0% |
| 3 | 33.4% |
| 2 | 22.9% |
| 1 | 6.6% |
Curious how this compares to other AP exams? Check out our AP Tier List for a full ranking by difficulty and pass rate.
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, students need strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, optics, electricity, magnetism, and modern physics concepts.
Many colleges grant credit for strong AP Physics 2 scores:
| Institution Type | Minimum Score for Credit | Typical Credit Granted |
|---|---|---|
| Ivy League / Top 20 | 5 | Placement only (credit varies) |
| Selective Private Universities | 4 or 5 | 3–4 credits (Intro Physics II equivalent) |
| Large Public Universities | 3, 4, or 5 | 3–4 credits (Intro Physics II equivalent) |
| Community Colleges | 3 | 3–4 credits (Intro Physics II equivalent) |
No. Your raw score is based only on correct answers, so answer every question.
AP Physics 1 covers mechanics (kinematics, forces, energy, momentum, rotation, waves). AP Physics 2 covers thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, optics, electricity, magnetism, and modern physics. Both are algebra-based.
If you have a strong calculus background and plan to major in engineering or physics, Physics C: E&M is the better choice for college credit. Physics 2 is broader in scope but algebra-based.
This calculator uses estimated composite score cutoffs based on historical data. Actual cutoffs may vary slightly each year.
The AP Physics 2 exam is typically administered in May. Check our AP Test Dates 2026 page for the exact date.
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