AP Statistics Grade Calculator
Predict your AP Stats exam score based on your section performance
Section I: Multiple Choice
40 questions • 50% of total score • 90 minutes
Section II: Free Response
6 questions • 50% of total score • 90 minutes
Score Interpretation
Understanding the AP Statistics Exam Structure
The AP Statistics exam is a comprehensive 3-hour test designed to assess your understanding of statistical concepts, data analysis, and inference. The exam is divided into two equally weighted sections, each contributing 50% to your final score.
Section I: Multiple Choice (50% of Score)
The multiple choice section contains 40 questions to be completed in 90 minutes. These questions test your ability to:
- Interpret graphical displays of data distributions
- Calculate and interpret summary statistics
- Understand probability concepts and distributions
- Apply inference procedures for proportions and means
- Analyze experimental design and sampling methods
Section II: Free Response (50% of Score)
The free response section consists of 6 questions completed in 90 minutes:
- Questions 1-5: Short-answer questions worth 4 points each (20 points total)
- Question 6: Investigative task worth 4 points but weighted double in scoring
How Scoring Works
Your raw scores from both sections are converted to a composite score, which is then translated to an AP score of 1-5. The College Board uses a curve that varies slightly each year based on exam difficulty.
AP Statistics Score Cutoffs
The following table shows approximate score cutoffs based on recent exam data. Note that these can vary by 2-5 points each year:
| AP Score | Composite Score Range | Approximate Percentage | Qualification Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 70-100 | 70%+ | Extremely Well Qualified |
| 4 | 57-69 | 57-69% | Well Qualified |
| 3 | 44-56 | 44-56% | Qualified |
| 2 | 33-43 | 33-43% | Possibly Qualified |
| 1 | 0-32 | 0-32% | No Recommendation |
How to Calculate Your AP Statistics Score
The calculation process involves several steps:
- Calculate MC Raw Score: Number correct × 1.25 = MC weighted score (max 50 points)
- Calculate FRQ Raw Score: (FRQ 1-5 points × 1.875) + (FRQ 6 points × 3.125) = FRQ weighted score (max 50 points)
- Add Sections: MC weighted + FRQ weighted = Composite score (max 100 points)
- Convert to AP Score: Use the cutoff ranges to determine your 1-5 score
Example Calculation
Scenario: A student gets 32/40 on MC, 16/20 on FRQ 1-5, and 3/4 on FRQ 6
MC Score: 32 × 1.25 = 40 points
FRQ Score: (16 × 1.875) + (3 × 3.125) = 30 + 9.375 = 39.375 points
Composite: 40 + 39.375 = 79.375 ≈ AP Score of 5
Tips to Improve Your AP Statistics Score
Multiple Choice Strategies
- Know your calculator: Practice TI-83/84 functions for statistical calculations
- Eliminate answers: Use statistical reasoning to rule out impossible options
- Watch for common traps: Correlation vs causation, confounding variables
- Manage time: Aim for about 2 minutes per question
Free Response Strategies
- Show all work: Partial credit is available for correct reasoning
- Use context: Always relate your answer back to the specific scenario
- Name the test/interval: Explicitly state which procedure you're using
- Check conditions: Always verify assumptions before running inference
- Communicate clearly: Write in complete sentences for interpretations
What Score Do You Need?
The score you need depends on your goals:
- Score of 5: Almost all colleges grant credit; highly selective schools may still require it
- Score of 4: Most colleges grant credit or placement
- Score of 3: Many colleges grant credit; check specific policies
- Score of 2: Few colleges grant credit; still demonstrates effort
- Score of 1: No credit, but the experience still builds skills
Research your target colleges' AP credit policies, as they vary significantly. Some competitive STEM programs may require a 5 for credit, while others accept a 3.