AP exam scores are officially released every July, with updates rolling out in the following days. Many students eagerly receive their results, celebrating their hard-earned achievements. Enrolling in AP courses and taking AP exams not only strengthens academic skills but also highlights competitiveness. Beyond reflecting diligence and effort, each AP exam score carries its own significance.  
 

關於AP (Advanced Placement)美國大學先修課程的詳細介紹 

 

What Is AP (Advanced Placement), and Why Does It Matter?

AP (Advanced Placement) is a rigorous program offering high school students college-level courses and the opportunity to earn college credit through exams. AP courses are more challenging than standard classes and are ideal for students passionate about specific subjects who are willing to dedicate extra effort and time to learning. 

While AP scores are not a mandatory requirement for U.S. college applications, they have become essential assets in an increasingly competitive admissions landscape. High AP scores demonstrate academic strength and readiness, making applicants stand out.  

 

Should You Take as Many AP Exams as Possible?

While AP courses provide in-depth knowledge and the opportunity to showcase academic ability, it’s not about taking as many exams as possible. Instead, focus on selecting courses aligned with your interests and future goals. For instance, if your aspirations lie in STEM, prioritize AP courses in science and math rather than unrelated subjects. Proper planning ensures that AP courses genuinely enhance your college application. 

Before selecting AP courses, ask yourself: 

• Are my course choices balanced and aligned with my academic goals? 
• Have I prepared adequately and managed my time effectively to meet the challenges of AP coursework? 

 

What Do AP Scores Mean?

AP exam scores range from 1 to 5, derived from multiple-choice and free-response sections. These scores serve as an indicator of subject proficiency and can play a critical role in earning college credit. Here's what each score represents: 

1: The lowest score, indicating no college credit will be awarded. This score provides no benefit for college applications. 

2: Demonstrates partial understanding of the subject but insufficient for college credit. This score is generally not recommended for submission in applications. 

3: A passing score that signifies a solid grasp of the subject. Depending on the institution, a score of 3 may qualify for college credit. Consult advisors to determine submission strategies. 

4：A strong score that often earns college credit and showcases thorough preparation. Colleges regard this score favorably.  

5：The highest standard, reflecting mastery of the subject. A score of 5 sets applicants apart in the admissions process. 

 

 

What If Your AP Exam Didn’t Go Well?

Cancelling Scores  
If you sent scores to colleges during the exam and later decide to cancel, submit a request by June 15. Keep in mind that cancellations are permanent, so weigh the decision carefully.  

Rescoring  
Students who feel their multiple-choice performance was under-evaluated can request rescoring through College Board for $30 per subject. Requests must be submitted by October 31, and the process takes 6–8 weeks. Note that rescoring may lower your score, so proceed cautiously.  

Accessing Free-Response Booklets  
While free-response questions cannot be rescored, students can request their original booklets (without annotations or grades) for $10 per subject. This allows students to review their performance and identify areas for improvement. The deadline for requests is September 15.  
 

Proper planning and effective use of AP courses can set you up for success, helping you reach new heights in your academic journey.  
 

Official College Board AP Website: https://apstudent.collegeboard.org

 

閱讀中文版文章：妥善運用AP課程 ＆了解AP考試的意義

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