How much college credit can I earn from AP Exams?

The amount of college credit you can earn from AP Exams can be substantial, potentially saving you a significant amount of time and money on your undergraduate degree. The exact amount of credit varies widely depending on the college's policy, the specific AP subject, and the score you receive.

As a general rule of thumb, a qualifying score of 3, 4, or 5 on a single AP Exam can earn you 3 to 8 college credits. This is often equivalent to one or two semesters of a single introductory college course. For example, a score of 4 on AP English Language and Composition might earn you 3 credits for a freshman writing course. A score of 5 on AP Calculus BC could earn you 8 credits, allowing you to place out of both Calculus I and Calculus II. The impact can be cumulative. A student who enters college with credit from 4-5 AP exams could potentially graduate a full semester or even a full year early. This translates to thousands of dollars in tuition savings and gives you the flexibility to pursue a double major, study abroad, or take a lighter course load to focus on a difficult subject. To maximize your credit, always check the specific policy of your chosen college.