AP Biology Score Calculator
Estimated AP Score
Composite Score: / 120
Estimated AP Score (1–5):
How to Use the AP BIO Score Calculator
The AP Biology Score Calculator is a tool that estimates your AP score (from 1 to 5) based on your raw performance on the Multiple Choice and Free Response sections of the AP Biology exam.
What is the AP Biology Exam?
The AP Biology exam is a standardized test administered by the College Board that evaluates students’ understanding of college-level biology concepts. It consists of:
- 60 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ) — 50% of the score
- 6 Free Response Questions (FRQ) — 50% of the score
Each section is scored, scaled, and combined to produce a composite score out of 120, which is then mapped to an AP score between 1 (lowest) and 5 (highest).
How the Calculator Works
This calculator mirrors the College Board’s weighted system by scaling:
- Your MCQ raw score out of 60 to a value out of 60
- Your FRQ raw score out of 36 to a value out of 60
The combined score (out of 120) is then matched against historical scoring thresholds to estimate your AP score:
| Composite Score | Estimated AP Score |
|---|---|
| 92–120 | 5 (Extremely well qualified) |
| 75–91 | 4 (Well qualified) |
| 55–74 | 3 (Qualified) |
| 40–54 | 2 (Possibly qualified) |
| 0–39 | 1 (No recommendation) |
Steps to Use:
- Enter your raw MCQ score (how many you got right out of 60).
- Enter your raw FRQ score (usually based on rubric scoring out of 36).
- Click “Calculate Estimated AP Score.”
- The calculator will display:
- Your Composite Score
- Your Estimated AP Score (1–5)
Why Use This Calculator?
- Quick feedback on practice tests
- Targeted studying — know if you’re close to the next score tier
- Reduce anxiety by understanding the scoring breakdown
- Track your improvement throughout the year
AP BIO Score Calculator FAQ
Q1: Is this an official AP score?
A: No. This estimate is based on historical College Board data and general scoring patterns. Your actual score is determined by official graders and may vary year-to-year.
Q2: How are FRQs scored?
A: FRQs are scored based on a rubric, with points awarded for correct answers, explanations, data analysis, and experimental design. Each of the 6 questions contributes to a total of 36 points.
Q3: What if I leave a question blank?
A: For MCQs, there’s no penalty for guessing. On FRQs, leaving a question blank simply means lost potential points.
Q4: Why do I need both MCQ and FRQ scores?
A: The AP Biology exam weights each section equally—50% from MCQ and 50% from FRQs—so estimating your score accurately requires both.
Q5: Can this calculator help me plan my study strategy?
A: Yes! If your estimated score is below your goal, you can identify which section needs more work. Use the feedback to adjust your prep plan.