AP English Language and Composition Score Calculator
The AP English Language and Composition exam consists of two sections. Section 1 includes multiple choice questions, while Section 2 contains three free-response questions. The exam is scored on a scale of 1 - 5, with a 5 being the highest possible score.
How Is The AP English Language and Composition Exam Structured?
The AP English Language and Composition exam consists of two main sections with the following structure:
| Section | Question Type | Time | Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Section 1 | Multiple Choice | 1 hour | 45 questions |
| Section 2 | Free Response | 2 hours 15 minutes | 3 questions |
Total exam time: 3 hours and 15 minutes
Section Details
Section 1 (Multiple Choice)
- 45 questions testing your ability to analyze and interpret texts
- Focus on rhetorical analysis, argumentation, and synthesis
- Includes single and paired passages
Section 2 (Free Response)
- Question 1: Synthesis Essay (6 points)
- Question 2: Rhetorical Analysis Essay (6 points)
- Question 3: Argument Essay (6 points)
- 15 minutes of reading/planning + 40 minutes of writing per essay
Scoring Process
The AP English Language and Composition exam uses a weighted scoring system: multiple-choice (45%) and free-response (55%). Raw scores are combined into a composite score, converted to a final AP score (1–5).
| AP English Score | Percentage of Students |
|---|---|
| 5 | 9.8% |
| 4 | 21.4% |
| 3 | 23.5% |
| 2 | 28.8% |
| 1 | 16.6% |
What Is A Good Score?
A score of 3 or higher is generally passing. Colleges usually grant credit for scores of 4 or 5, which demonstrate strong analytical and writing skills essential for college-level English.