Understand AP Physics 1 Exam Scoring and Use the Score Calculator

Understanding How the AP Physics 1 Exam is Scored

The AP Physics 1 exam is a challenging test that covers a broad range of topics in algebra-based physics. Scoring well on the AP Physics 1 exam requires strong conceptual understanding and problem-solving skills. Many students taking the AP Physics 1 course wonder how the exam is scored and what score they will need to earn college credit.

The AP Physics 1 exam has a total score of 120 points. Your score is based on two sections: multiple choice and free response. Here is the exam format and scoring breakdown:

• Multiple Choice Section: 50 multiple choice questions worth 1 point each, for a total of 50 points.
• Free Response Section: 5 free response questions worth 10 points each, for a total of 50 points.
• Raw Score: Total number of points earned across both sections, out of 120 total points.

Your raw score is converted to an AP score on a 5-point scale. The score conversion chart is as follows:

• 5 = 94-120 points
• 4 = 74-93 points
• 3 = 54-73 points
• 2 = 34-53 points
• 1 = 0-33 points

Using the AP Physics 1 Exam Score Calculator

The College Board offers an official AP Physics 1 exam score calculator that you can use to get an estimate of your score. This tool lets you enter the number of multiple choice questions you think you got right, and your scores on each free response question.

Here are some tips for using the AP Physics 1 exam score calculator:

• Be honest with yourself about how you think you did on each section.
• For the multiple choice section, make an educated guess if you are uncertain about a question.
• For free response, use the scoring guidelines to estimate your points for each question.
• After entering your scores, the calculator will immediately show your estimated AP score.
• This is just an estimate, but it can give you a good idea of how you performed.

What AP Physics 1 Exam Score Should You Aim For?

The score you should aim for on the AP Physics 1 exam depends on your goals:

• If you just want to pass the exam, aim for a 3.
• If you want potential college credit, aim for a 4 or 5.
• Check with your intended college to see what score they require for credit.

In 2021, the AP Physics 1 exam scores were:

• 5: 5.4% of students
• 4: 15.9% of students
• 3: 20.3% of students
• 2: 18.7% of students
• 1: 39.7% of students

Earning a 4 or 5 takes strong preparation and understanding of the material. But with hard work throughout your AP Physics 1 course, it is certainly possible!

How to Use Your AP Physics 1 Practice Exam Scores

Taking full-length AP Physics 1 practice exams is one of the best ways to prepare for the real test. When you take an AP Physics 1 practice exam, you can enter your scores into the exam score calculator to predict your AP score.

Here are some tips for using practice exam results:

• Take a practice exam early in your review to establish a baseline.
• Use the calculator after each subsequent practice test to check for improvement.
• Review your mistakes thoroughly to identify weak areas.
• Focus your study time on strengthening the content knowledge and skills you are struggling with.
• Take a practice test 1-2 weeks before the actual AP exam to check your progress.

Estimating your AP score based on practice exams will help you tailor your studying to the areas you need the most work on. Continually checking your progress can motivate you and ensure you are on track to achieve your target score.

Final Tips for Using the AP Physics 1 Exam Score Calculator

Here are a few final tips for effectively using the AP Physics 1 exam score calculator:

• Be honest with yourself when entering your practice exam and predicted actual exam scores.
• Use it both early and often during your review to check progress.
• Aim high - don't just settle for passing, try your best to reach a 4 or 5!
• Follow up lower than expected predicted scores by refocusing your study plan.
• Use your score estimate to stay motivated and on track for success.

Preparing for the AP Physics 1 exam takes time and dedication. But using the exam score calculator during your review provides helpful insight into how you are progressing. Estimate your scores frequently, stay focused on areas for improvement, and keep pushing yourself to achieve your highest potential score!