AP® Chemistry Score Calculator 2026

How We Convert Raw Points to Scaled Scores

• Section I: Multiple-choice – 60 questions, 90 minutes (50% of composite score, scaled to 50 points)
• Section II: Free-response – 7 questions, 105 minutes (50% of composite score, scaled to 50 points)
• Long FRQs (Questions 1-3) – 10 points each, covering experimental design, chemical equations, and quantitative problem-solving
• Short FRQs (Questions 4-7) – 4 points each, focusing on specific topics like molecular structure, thermodynamics, kinetics, and equilibrium
• Composite scaled to 100 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 Chemistry exams. The exact conversion may vary slightly each year based on exam difficulty and College Board's equating process.

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

Study Tips to Lock In a 5

Multiple-Choice Strategy

• Master fundamental concepts – Focus on atomic structure, bonding, stoichiometry, thermodynamics, kinetics, and equilibrium.
• Use dimensional analysis – Set up conversion factors correctly to avoid calculation errors.
• Eliminate wrong answers – Cross out implausible options before selecting your final answer.
• Manage your time – You have 90 minutes for 60 questions (1.5 minutes per question).

Long Free-Response Questions

• Show all work – Even if your final answer is incorrect, you can earn partial credit for correct methodology.
• Balance chemical equations – Include states of matter and balance all atoms and charges.
• Use correct units – Always include units in your calculations and final answers.
• Draw particulate diagrams – Visual representations of molecular interactions earn easy points.
• Allocate 23 minutes per long FRQ – This ensures you have time to complete all questions.

Short Free-Response Questions

• Be concise but complete – Answer directly and include all necessary information.
• Use proper terminology – Terms like "intermolecular forces," "enthalpy," and "Le Chatelier's principle" demonstrate mastery.
• Justify your reasoning – Explain why your answer is correct using chemical principles.
• Allocate 9 minutes per short FRQ – Stay on pace to finish all seven free-response questions.

General Chemistry Strategies

• Memorize key constants – Know Avogadro's number (\(6.022 \times 10^{23}\)), gas constant (\(R = 0.0821\)), and common polyatomic ions.
• Practice stoichiometry daily – Mole conversions, limiting reagents, and percent yield appear frequently.
• Understand equilibrium – Le Chatelier's principle, \(K_c\), \(K_p\), and ICE tables are heavily tested.
• Master acid-base chemistry – pH, pOH, \(K_a\), \(K_b\), buffers, and titrations make up 11-15% of the exam.

Frequently Asked Questions