Last Updated: January 9, 2025
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.
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 / 50
Free Response Score
0 / 50
Combined Composite Score
0 / 100
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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
Section 1: Multiple Choice
40 questions testing your understanding of physics concepts
Includes both discrete questions and question sets based on given scenarios or data
Section 2: Free Response
4 questions (10 points each) covering different skills:
Mathematical routines
Translation between representations
Experimental design and analysis
Qualitative/quantitative translation
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.
The AP Physics 2 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:
| AP Physics 2 Score | Percentage of Students |
|---|---|
| 5 | 19.1% |
| 4 | 18.0% |
| 3 | 33.4% |
| 2 | 22.9% |
| 1 | 6.6% |
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 physics concepts and principles
Ability to analyze experimental data and results
Skills in mathematical problem-solving and calculations
Clear scientific writing and argumentation
Application of physics concepts to real-world scenarios
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