Predict your AP Bio score (1–5) with our free calculator. Enter your MCQ and FRQ scores to see your estimated result instantly.
Long FRQs (Q1-Q2): ~22 min each · Short FRQs (Q3-Q6): ~9 min each
Enter your scores above to see your prediction
Rate your comfort level in each unit to identify where to focus your study time.
The AP Biology exam consists of two equally-weighted sections. Your raw scores are combined into a composite score out of 120, which is then converted to an AP score of 1–5.
| Section | Questions | Time | Weight | Max Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| I — Multiple Choice | 60 MCQs | 90 min | 50% | 60 (scaled) |
| II — Free Response | 2 Long + 4 Short FRQs | 90 min | 50% | 60 (scaled from 36 raw) |
| Composite Range | AP Score | Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| 93–120 | 5 | Extremely Well Qualified |
| 74–92 | 4 | Well Qualified |
| 51–73 | 3 | Qualified |
| 28–50 | 2 | Possibly Qualified |
| 0–27 | 1 | No Recommendation |
In 2025, 287,232 students took the AP Biology exam with a mean score of 3.24. About 70.4% of students scored a 3 or higher.
Your target AP Bio score depends on your college plans. Many selective colleges require a 4 or 5 for credit, while some accept a 3. Research your target schools' AP policies.
AP Bio is considered one of the most challenging AP exams, but the 2025 data shows a strong upward trend. Here are proven strategies to maximize your score.
AP Bio is organized around 8 units. Focus on the highest-weight units first: Natural Selection (13–20%), Cellular Energetics (12–16%), and Gene Expression (12–16%).
FRQs are 50% of your score but the most controllable section. Use released FRQs from College Board (2015–2025) and score yourself using official rubrics.
Q2 specifically tests your ability to construct and interpret graphs. Practice creating properly labeled graphs with titles, axes, units, and trendlines.
AP Bio covers 13 required labs including diffusion/osmosis, enzyme catalysis, photosynthesis, respiration, and genetics. Expect lab-based questions on both MCQ and FRQ.
You have 1.5 minutes per MCQ. For FRQs: spend ~22 min on each long question and ~9 min on each short question. Skip difficult MCQs and come back.
FRQ graders look for specific action words: "describe," "explain," "justify," "predict," and "calculate." Match your response to what the prompt asks.
Understanding the weight of each unit helps prioritize your study time. The AP Biology curriculum spans from molecular biology to ecology.
| Unit | Topic | Exam Weight | Priority |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chemistry of Life | 8–11% | Medium |
| 2 | Cell Structure & Function | 10–13% | Medium |
| 3 | Cellular Energetics | 12–16% | HIGH |
| 4 | Cell Communication & Cell Cycle | 10–15% | Medium |
| 5 | Heredity | 8–11% | Medium |
| 6 | Gene Expression & Regulation | 12–16% | HIGH |
| 7 | Natural Selection | 13–20% | HIGHEST |
| 8 | Ecology | 10–15% | High |
| Exam | Mean Score | % Scoring 5 | % Scoring 3+ | Test Takers (2025) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AP Biology | 3.24 | 18.9% | 70.4% | 287,232 |
| AP Chemistry | 3.15 | 17.8% | 67.2% | 175,000+ |
| AP Physics 1 | 2.60 | 8.0% | 43.5% | 190,000+ |
| AP Environmental Science | 2.72 | 9.5% | 51.3% | 195,000+ |
| AP Physics C: Mechanics | 3.87 | 38.0% | 83.2% | 65,000+ |