Last Updated: March 28, 2026
The AP Physics C: Mechanics 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 AP Physics C: E&M calculator or browse all AP Score Calculators.
Instructions
Enter your scores for each section using the sliders below to calculate your estimated AP score.
Section 1: Multiple Choice
Free Response Questions
Question 1: Mathematical Routines
Question 2: Translation Between Representations
Question 3: Experimental Design and Analysis
Question 4: Qualitative/Quantitative Translation
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 C: Mechanics exam consists of two main sections:
| Section | Question Type | Time | Questions | Exam Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Section 1 | Multiple Choice | 80 minutes | 40 questions | 50% |
| Section 2 | Free Response | 100 minutes | 4 questions | 50% |
Total exam time: 3 hours
Each section is worth 40 raw points, for a total composite score out of 80.
| AP Score | Composite Score Range | Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 46–80 | Extremely Well Qualified |
| 4 | 35–45 | Well Qualified |
| 3 | 28–34 | Qualified |
| 2 | 20–27 | Possibly Qualified |
| 1 | 0–19 | No Recommendation |
These cutoffs are estimates based on historical data. View all AP exam score ranges on our AP Score Range page.
AP Physics C: Mechanics has strong pass rates, with over 75% of students scoring a 3 or higher:
| AP Physics C: Mechanics Score | Percentage of Students |
|---|---|
| 5 | 28.5% |
| 4 | 26.8% |
| 3 | 20.9% |
| 2 | 13.2% |
| 1 | 10.5% |
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. A 4 or 5 is a strong score and is typically needed for credit at selective institutions.
Many colleges grant credit for strong AP Physics C: Mechanics scores:
| Institution Type | Minimum Score | Typical Credit Granted |
|---|---|---|
| Ivy League / Top 20 | 5 | Placement into advanced physics (credit varies) |
| Selective Private Universities | 4 or 5 | 3–4 credits (Physics I: Mechanics equivalent) |
| Large Public Universities | 3, 4, or 5 | 3–4 credits (Physics I: Mechanics equivalent) |
| Community Colleges | 3 | 3–4 credits |
No. Answer every question — your score is based only on correct answers.
Both cover mechanics, but Physics C uses calculus while AP Physics 1 is algebra-based. Physics C goes deeper into fewer topics and is preferred by engineering programs.
If you plan to major in engineering or physics, taking both Mechanics and E&M can earn you credit for a full year of introductory physics. Many students take Mechanics first, then E&M.
This calculator uses estimated composite score cutoffs based on historical data. Actual cutoffs may vary slightly each year.
The exam is typically administered in May. Check our AP Test Dates 2026 page for the exact date.
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