AP® US History Score Calculator 2026

How We Convert Raw Points to Scaled Scores

• Section I, Part A: Multiple-choice – 55 questions, 55 minutes (40% of composite score, scaled to 52 points)
• Section I, Part B: Short answer – 3 questions, 40 minutes (20% of composite score, scaled to 26 points)
• Section II: Document-Based Question (DBQ) – 1 essay, 60 minutes including 15-min reading period (25% of composite, scaled to 32.5 points)
• Section II: Long Essay Question (LEQ) – 1 essay (choose from 3 prompts), 40 minutes (15% of composite, scaled to 19.5 points)
• Composite scaled to 130 points total. We average the last three curves to map composite scores to the 5‑point AP scale.

2025 Raw Score → Scaled Score Chart (Estimate)

This calculator uses composite scoring based on recent AP US History exams. The exact conversion may vary slightly each year based on exam difficulty and College Board's equating process.

Note: Cut-offs are based on College Board score distributions from 2022-2025. Actual thresholds may shift by ±2 points depending on exam difficulty.

Top Tips to Earn a 5

Multiple-Choice Strategy

• Read the question stem first before analyzing the stimulus material (document, chart, or image) to focus your reading.
• Eliminate obviously wrong answers and look for historically defensible options that align with the time period.
• Watch for EXCEPT and NOT questions – these require identifying the one incorrect or irrelevant answer.
• Never leave blanks – there's no penalty for guessing on the AP US History exam.

Short Answer Questions (SAQs)

• Answer all parts of each question – most SAQs have parts a, b, and c worth 1 point each.
• Be specific with evidence – use names, dates, events, and explain their historical significance.
• Keep responses concise – 2-4 sentences per part is typically sufficient.
• Use historical thinking skills – causation, comparison, continuity and change over time (CCOT).

Document-Based Question (DBQ)

• Use the 15-minute reading period wisely – analyze all 7 documents, note their POV/purpose/audience/context (HIPP).
• Write a clear, defensible thesis in your introduction that directly addresses the prompt and establishes your line of reasoning.
• Use at least 6 documents with HIPP analysis – explain how each document's point of view, purpose, historical context, or audience affects its content.
• Include outside evidence – provide at least one specific historical example not found in the documents.
• Contextualize your argument – connect your thesis to broader historical developments before, during, or after the time period.

Long Essay Question (LEQ)

• Choose your prompt wisely – pick the time period and reasoning process (causation, comparison, or CCOT) you know best.
• Develop a strong thesis that establishes categories or provides reasoning for your claim.
• Use specific evidence – include at least 2-3 detailed historical examples with names, dates, and events.
• Explain how evidence supports your argument – don't just list facts; analyze their significance.

Frequently Asked Questions