Algebra 2 Regents Score Calculator

January 2026 Raw-to-Scale Conversion Chart

Official NYSED conversion table for the January 2026 Algebra II Regents Examination.

Tips to Maximize Your Score

Strategic advice to help you pass and earn mastery on the Algebra 2 Regents.

2026 Algebra 2 Regents Exam Format & Scoring

The Algebra 2 Regents (also known as Algebra II) is the most advanced mathematics Regents examination offered by the New York State Education Department (NYSED). It tests your mastery of Common Core Algebra 2 and Trigonometry standards and is required for the Advanced Regents Diploma. The exam is offered three times per year — January, June, and August — and covers topics significantly more complex than Algebra 1 or Geometry. Understanding the format is critical to scoring well.

Performance Levels & What They Mean

Your raw score (out of 86) is converted to a scaled score (0–100) using a conversion chart specific to each exam administration. The Algebra 2 curve is typically more generous than Algebra 1 due to the higher difficulty level. Each scaled score maps to a performance level:

• Level 1 (0–54): Below Standard — major gaps in Algebra 2 knowledge. Consider retaking the course.
• Level 2 (55–64): Approaching Standard — close to passing. Focus on weak topics and retake if needed.
• Level 3 (65–84): Meets Standard — passing score. Earns credit toward Regents or Advanced Regents diploma.
• Level 4 (85–89): Meets Standard with Distinction — qualifies for Mastery endorsement on diploma.
• Level 5 (90–100): Exceeds Standard — outstanding mastery. Demonstrates college-readiness in advanced math.

Detailed Scoring Breakdown by Part

Part I: Multiple Choice (48 points)

Part I contains 24 multiple-choice questions worth 2 points each. There is no penalty for wrong answers, so never leave a question blank. Questions cover all Algebra 2 topics, including polynomial operations, trigonometric functions, logarithms, rational expressions, and statistics. Difficulty ranges from recall-level (identify the type of function) to multi-step problems requiring several concepts. This section represents over half your raw score — mastering Part I is the fastest path to passing.

Strategy: Budget ~1 minute per question (24 minutes total). For challenging questions, eliminate two wrong answers and choose between the remaining two. Use your graphing calculator to check — graph equations, use TABLE to verify values, or plug answer choices back into the original equation. Flag difficult questions and return to them after completing Parts II–IV.

Part II: Short Response (16 points)

Part II has 8 questions worth 2 points each. You must show work and clearly state your answer. Partial credit is available — 1 point for a correct approach with an arithmetic error, or for demonstrating partial understanding. Common question types include simplifying expressions, solving equations (exponential, logarithmic, or trigonometric), finding domain/range, and evaluating compositions of functions.

Strategy: Write every algebraic step neatly. Even if unsure, set up the equation and attempt to solve — partial setups earn points. Label your final answer. If the question involves rounding, follow the specified precision.

Part III: Medium Response (16 points)

Part III contains 4 questions worth 4 points each. These are multi-step problems that require thorough work and clear justification. Questions frequently involve graphing functions with transformations, solving systems involving non-linear equations, analyzing data sets with regression, or proving trigonometric identities. You can earn 1, 2, or 3 points for partial work.

Strategy: Break problems into sub-steps. If asked to graph, use graph paper provided, label axes, and plot key points accurately. If a question says "algebraically," you must show algebraic work — a calculator graph alone won't receive full credit. Write "justify" or "explain" responses in complete sentences using mathematical vocabulary.

Part IV: Extended Response (6 points)

Part IV has one question worth 6 points. This is the most complex problem on the exam, typically with multiple parts (a, b, c) that build on each other. It often requires modelling a real-world situation with functions, solving using multiple methods, and interpreting results in context. Recent Part IV questions have involved compound interest problems with logarithms, trigonometric modelling of periodic phenomena, or comparing growth models.

Strategy: Read the entire problem before starting. Attempt every sub-part — if part (c) depends on part (b), use a reasonable estimate from part (b) rather than leaving part (c) blank. Show every calculation, include units where applicable, and write explanations in complete sentences.

What You Need for the Algebra 2 Regents Exam

Preparation Timeline

Algebra 2 is the most content-heavy Regents math exam, so start studying at least 4–6 weeks before the exam. The key to success is consistent practice with past Regents exams, which are available free on the NYSED website. The question styles are very predictable from year to year — if you master past exams, you'll recognise question patterns on test day.

• Reference Sheet: You receive an official formula reference sheet containing the quadratic formula, binomial theorem, exponential growth/decay formulas, sum of finite geometric series, and key trigonometric identities. Study this sheet beforehand so you know exactly where each formula is located.
• Graphing Calculator: A graphing calculator is required for this exam. Bring a fully charged TI-84, TI-Nspire (non-CAS), or equivalent. Know how to use regression (LinReg, ExpReg, SinReg), find zeros, intersections, and convert between radians and degrees.
• Unit Circle: You will NOT receive a unit circle on the exam. Memorise key values for 0°, 30°, 45°, 60°, 90°, and their equivalents in all four quadrants. This is non-negotiable for passing.
• Practice Exams: Complete at least 4–5 full past Regents exams under timed conditions (3 hours). Score each one using the conversion chart and track which topics cost you the most points.

What to Bring on Test Day

• Graphing calculator — approved models (TI-84, TI-Nspire non-CAS, Casio fx-9750GII). Fully charged or with fresh batteries.
• Pens and pencils — pencil for Part I (MCQ), blue or black pen for Parts II–IV.
• Ruler or straightedge — for graphing questions in Parts III and IV.
• Student ID — required for testing room admission.
• Water and snacks — the exam is 3 hours long. Stay hydrated and focused.

Time Management During the Exam

You have 3 hours (180 minutes) for 37 questions. Here's a recommended time allocation:

Topic-by-Topic Content Guide

Every major topic tested on the Algebra 2 Regents, with approximate exam weight and key concepts to master.

Common Mistakes to Avoid on the Algebra 2 Regents

These errors cost students the most points. Recognise them so you don't repeat them.

• ❌ Not checking for extraneous solutions: When solving rational and radical equations, you MUST substitute solutions back into the original equation. Solutions that produce division by zero or negative radicands are extraneous and must be rejected.
• ❌ Confusing radians and degrees: Make sure your calculator is in the correct mode. The unit circle uses radians (π/6, π/4, π/3, etc.). If a question gives angles in degrees, convert. If it asks for radians, don't give degrees.
• ❌ Misapplying logarithm rules: Remember: log(a·b) = log a + log b, NOT log(a + b) = log a + log b. The same applies to the quotient rule. These are the most common log errors. Also, log₂(8) = 3 because 2³ = 8 — practice converting between forms.
• ❌ Forgetting to show work on Parts II–IV: Even correct answers without supporting work can lose points. Write every algebraic step. If the question says "algebraically," a calculator-only solution receives 0 credit.
• ❌ Incorrect transformation order: For f(x) = a·f(b(x - h)) + k, apply transformations in the correct order: horizontal shift → horizontal stretch → reflection → vertical stretch → vertical shift. Many students apply shifts before stretches, which changes the result.
• ❌ Leaving MCQ answers blank: There's no guessing penalty. A random guess gives you a 25% chance — better than the 0% chance of a blank answer. Always bubble something.
• ❌ Not using the graphing calculator strategically: Your graphing calculator can graph trig functions, find regression equations, compute combinations, evaluate logs, and verify algebraic solutions. Students who use their calculators effectively consistently score 10–15 points higher.

Algebra 2 vs. Algebra 1 Regents: Key Differences

Understanding how the two exams compare helps you calibrate your preparation.

5-Week Study Plan for the Algebra 2 Regents

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Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the most common questions about the Algebra 2 Regents exam.