📅 Monday, May 4, 2026
12:00 PM Local Time • 3 Hours 15 Minutes Total

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1
Predicted AP Score
0
MCQ Points
0
FRQ Points
0
Composite /100
Section I: Multiple Choice (90 min)
Correct Answers (60 questions) 0 / 60
Section II: Free Response (105 min)
Long Questions (10 pts each)
Q1: Experimental Design 0 / 10
Q2: Chemical Equations 0 / 10
Q3: Quantitative Problem 0 / 10
Short Questions (4 pts each)
Q4: Molecular Structure 0 / 4
Q5: Thermodynamics 0 / 4
Q6: Kinetics 0 / 4
Q7: Equilibrium 0 / 4
AP Score Thresholds (Composite Points)
5
72-100
4
58-71
3
42-57
2
27-41
1
0-26

Score Conversion Chart

Composite Range AP Score Qualification Typical Credit
72-100 5 Extremely Well Qualified Full credit (3-8 hrs)
58-71 4 Well Qualified Full credit (3-6 hrs)
42-57 3 Qualified Partial credit (varies)
27-41 2 Possibly Qualified Rarely credit
0-26 1 No Recommendation No credit

Note: Cut-offs based on 2022-2025 College Board data. Actual thresholds may vary ±2 points.

How AP Chemistry Scoring Works

  • Section I (MCQ): 60 questions, 90 minutes → 50% of composite (scaled to 50 points)
  • Section II (FRQ): 7 questions, 105 minutes → 50% of composite (scaled to 50 points)
  • Long FRQs (Q1-Q3): 10 points each, ~23 minutes per question
  • Short FRQs (Q4-Q7): 4 points each, ~9 minutes per question
  • Total Raw FRQ: 46 points, scaled to 50 composite points
  • Total Composite: 100 points maximum

Tips to Score a 5

🎯 Multiple Choice Strategy

  • Use dimensional analysis for unit conversions
  • Memorize polyatomic ions and common constants
  • Eliminate implausible answers before selecting
  • Pace yourself: 1.5 minutes per question on average

📝 Free Response Strategy

  • Balance all chemical equations with states of matter
  • Show all work—partial credit available for methodology
  • Draw particulate diagrams when explaining molecular phenomena
  • Use correct significant figures (typically 3)

⚗️ Key Topics to Master

  • Stoichiometry and limiting reagents
  • Equilibrium (Le Châtelier, Ka, Kb, ICE tables)
  • Acid-base chemistry (pH, pOH, buffers, titrations)
  • Thermodynamics (ΔH, ΔS, ΔG, Hess's Law)

Frequently Asked Questions

How is the AP Chemistry exam scored?
Section I (MCQ) has 60 questions worth 50% of your score, scored by computer. Section II (FRQ) has 7 questions worth 50%, hand-scored by trained AP teachers. Scores combine to a 100-point composite, then convert to 1-5 scale.
What is a good AP Chemistry score?
3 or higher is considered passing and typically qualifies for college credit. A 5 is extremely well qualified (top 10-11%). A 4 is well qualified. The national average is around 2.8.
Can I use a calculator on the AP Chemistry exam?
Yes, calculators are permitted throughout both sections. You may use scientific or graphing calculators. QWERTY keyboards and wireless capabilities are not allowed.
How long is the AP Chemistry exam?
3 hours 15 minutes total: 90 minutes for Section I (60 MCQ) and 105 minutes for Section II (7 FRQ). Long FRQs ~23 min each; short FRQs ~9 min each.
What topics are covered on the AP Chemistry exam?
9 units: Atomic Structure (7-9%), Molecular/Ionic Compounds (7-9%), Intermolecular Forces (18-22%), Chemical Reactions (7-9%), Kinetics (7-9%), Thermodynamics (7-9%), Equilibrium (7-9%), Acids/Bases (11-15%), Applications of Thermo (7-9%).
Is there a periodic table provided?
Yes, you receive a periodic table, equation sheet, and constants table. Familiarize yourself with these before exam day.
When is the 2026 AP Chemistry exam?
Monday, May 4, 2026, at 12:00 PM local time. Late testing available May 18-22, 2026 for students with conflicts.
How many significant figures should I use?
Typically 3 significant figures unless the question specifies otherwise. Keep extra digits during intermediate calculations to avoid rounding errors.
Is guessing penalized on the MCQ?
No penalty for wrong answers. Answer every question, even if you need to guess. Leaving questions blank only hurts your score.
How are FRQ points distributed?
Long FRQs (Q1-Q3): 10 points each. Short FRQs (Q4-Q7): 4 points each. Total raw FRQ = 46 points, scaled to 50 composite points (50% of exam).
What is the passing rate for AP Chemistry?
Approximately 55-60% of students earn a 3 or higher. About 10-11% earn a 5, 16-18% earn a 4, and 25-28% earn a 3 in recent years.
How accurate is this calculator?
Within ±1 point for most students. Uses averaged score distributions from 2022-2025 exams. Actual scores depend on College Board's scaling for your specific exam year.
Do colleges accept a 3 for credit?
Many do, but policies vary. Selective colleges often require 4 or 5 for Chemistry credit. Some schools give placement but not credit. Check specific college AP policies.
What are the Big Ideas in AP Chemistry?
6 Big Ideas: Scale/Proportion, Structure/Properties, Transformations, Energy, Interactions, and Representations. These overarching concepts connect all units.
What constants should I memorize?
Know Avogadro's number (6.022×10²³), R (0.0821 L·atm/mol·K or 8.314 J/mol·K), and common polyatomic ions. Other constants are provided on the equation sheet.
How should I study the last week before the exam?
Review FRQ rubrics, practice with past exams, focus on weak topics. Memorize key constants and polyatomic ions. Don't cram new material—reinforce what you know.
Can I retake the AP Chemistry exam?
Yes, but only once per year. You can retake in a future year. Both scores are reported unless you request cancellation. Colleges typically use your highest score.