AP Human Geography Test Score Calculator
Section 1: Multiple Choice
There are 60 questions total.
Section 2: Free Response (FRQ)
Your Estimated AP Score
Note: This is an estimation based on historical curve data. Official College Board curves vary slightly each year.
How the AP Human Geography Score is Calculated
The AP Human Geography exam consists of two distinct sections, each contributing exactly 50% to your final score. Understanding how these are weighted can help you prioritize your study time effectively.
Section I: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ)
You have 60 minutes to answer 60 multiple-choice questions. This section tests your ability to interpret maps, analyze data, and understand geographic models. Each correct answer earns 1 point. There is no penalty for guessing, so you should always provide an answer for every question.
Section II: Free-Response Questions (FRQ)
You have 75 minutes to answer three free-response questions. Each question is typically worth 7 points. These questions require you to apply geographic concepts to real-world scenarios and often involve "command verbs" like "Describe," "Explain," or "Compare."
Composite Score Calculation Example
To calculate your score, the College Board converts your raw points into a "Composite Score" (usually out of 120). Here is an example of how a student might reach a score of 5:
- MCQ Raw Score: 48 correct out of 60 = 48 points
- FRQ Raw Score: 16 total points (out of 21) across three questions.
- Weighted FRQ: 16 × 2.857 = 45.7 points
- Total Composite: 48 + 45.7 = 93.7 (94)
- Final Result: A composite of 94 typically falls well within the range for a 5.
Tips for a Higher Score
- Master the Vocabulary: AP Human Geography is heavily vocabulary-dependent. Knowing the difference between "site" and "situation" or "centripetal" and "centrifugal" forces is critical for the MCQ section.
- Learn the Models: Be prepared to draw, identify, or explain models like the Demographic Transition Model (DTM), the Von Thünen Model, or the Burgess Concentric Zone Model.
- Answer the Prompt Directly: In FRQs, look for the command verb. If it says "Explain," don't just "Identify." You must provide the "how" or "why" to get full credit.
- Use Geographic Terminology: When writing FRQs, use specific terms like "spatial distribution," "scale of analysis," and "globalization" to demonstrate mastery of the subject.
Score Distribution Table (Approximate)
| AP Score | Composite Range (Approx.) | Performance Level |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 85 – 120 | Extremely Well Qualified |
| 4 | 70 – 84 | Well Qualified |
| 3 | 52 – 69 | Qualified |
| 2 | 35 – 51 | Possibly Qualified |
| 1 | 0 – 34 | No Recommendation |