How do AP scores factor into college admissions?

Hi, I've been thinking about how colleges consider AP scores during admissions. Do colleges see all of our AP scores and will they have an impact on admission decisions?

Hi! You bring up a common question about the role of AP scores in the college admissions process. Colleges typically do consider AP scores, but their impact on admission decisions is generally minimal compared to other factors like your grades, coursework, extracurricular involvement, essays, and standardized test scores (if required).

It's important to distinguish between AP course grades and AP exam scores. Colleges pay more attention to the AP courses you've taken and the grades you've earned in them, as these factors represent your academic rigor and performance over an extended period. While AP exam scores play a smaller role, they can still serve to showcase your knowledge and proficiency in a particular subject.

You have the option to self-report your AP scores on most college applications, which allows you to choose which scores to report and omit any that you think might not reflect your abilities accurately. Colleges are aware that students might not perform their best on a single exam or have an off day, so they do not judge applicants solely based on AP scores. However, if you have a particularly high AP score in a subject related to your intended major, it could be beneficial to include it in your application.

After you have been admitted, AP scores can become more relevant in determining course placement and whether you can receive credit for certain subjects. In summary, while AP scores are a data point that colleges might consider, they are not a make-or-break factor in the admissions process. Instead, focus on maintaining strong grades in your AP courses and demonstrating your commitment to learning and growth through other areas of your application.