Use this **AP Physics C Score Calculator** to estimate your final scaled score (1-5) based on your raw performance in the Multiple Choice (MC) and Free Response (FRQ) sections. This tool is based on historical scoring curves for the Mechanics and Electricity & Magnetism exams.
AP Physics C Score Calculator
Estimated AP Score
—AP Physics C Score Calculation Formula
The final AP score (1-5) is derived from the total composite raw score, which is a weighted sum of the Multiple Choice (MC) and Free Response (FRQ) sections.
AP Score = Map(Total Raw Score) to (1, 2, 3, 4, or 5)
Formula Source & Official Guidance: College Board AP Physics C Official Information, AP Score Setting Process
Variables
The calculator uses the following inputs to determine your predicted AP Score:
- Multiple Choice (MC) Raw Score (Max 35): Your estimated or actual number of correct answers on the MC section.
- Free Response (FRQ) Raw Score (Max 45): Your estimated or actual score achieved on the three FRQ problems (15 points each).
- Total Raw Score (0-80): The sum of your MC and FRQ raw scores used to find the corresponding AP Score.
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What is the AP Physics C Score?
The AP Physics C final score is a standardized, college-level grade ranging from 1 to 5, where 5 represents the highest proficiency and is often accepted for college credit. This single score reflects a student’s composite raw score performance on both the Multiple Choice and Free Response sections of the exam (Mechanics or E&M).
A score of 3 or higher is generally considered a “passing” grade, although selective colleges may require a 4 or 5 for credit or advanced placement. The conversion from the raw score (out of 80 points) to the final AP score is determined by a cut-score boundary setting process that varies slightly each year.
How to Calculate AP Physics C Score (Example)
Follow these steps to determine your raw score:
- **Determine MC Raw Score:** Count the number of correct answers in the 35-question MC section. (e.g., 32 correct answers = 32 points).
- **Determine FRQ Raw Score:** Sum the points earned across the three Free Response Questions (each out of 15 points). (e.g., 12 + 15 + 10 = 37 points).
- **Calculate Total Raw Score:** Add the MC and FRQ scores together. (e.g., 32 + 37 = 69 points).
- **Consult the Conversion Table:** Use the total raw score (69) and compare it against the established AP Physics C scoring curve (historically, a score of 69 would typically convert to a 5).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a good raw score for a 5 in AP Physics C?
Historically, achieving a total raw score of approximately 50 to 55 points (out of 80) or higher has been sufficient to earn the highest AP score of 5. This cutoff can fluctuate, so always check the latest college board guidance.
Is this calculator accurate for both Mechanics and E&M?
Yes, this calculator uses a generalized historical curve that applies to both the Mechanics and Electricity & Magnetism sections, as their raw score structures (35 MC + 45 FRQ) are identical.
Do incorrect MC answers subtract points (negative scoring)?
No. AP exams have eliminated the penalty for incorrect multiple-choice answers, meaning only correct answers count toward your raw score.
What is the maximum raw score achievable?
The maximum total raw score for either the AP Physics C: Mechanics or AP Physics C: E&M exam is 80 points (35 points from MC and 45 points from FRQ).