In this blog, we present an overview of the 2023 Advanced Placement AP score distributions. We’ll explore the percentage of students who scored 3 or higher in each subject, ranging from AP Latin to AP Physics C: Electricity & Magnetism.
We analyzed the AP Exam Scores 2023 score distribution by Trevor Packer, to offer a glimpse into what these scores mean and how they can shape students’ academic futures.
Join us in celebrating the accomplishments of these talented students and their dedication to academic excellence.
Let’s dive into the data and discover the outcomes of the 2023 AP exams!
Need help with your 2024 AP exam preparation? find top online AP tutors to help you ace the AP exam!
How to check my AP Scores 2023
- Visit the website – https://bit.ly/apscores2023
- Check that you can sign into your College Board account.
Make sure that you remember your login credentials by signing in before scores are released in July. This is the same account that you use to access My AP or other College Board resources. - Make sure we have your current email address.
If you’ve changed your email address, update it in your account. - Don’t create a new account if you already have one.
Duplicate accounts can cause delays in getting your AP scores. Sign in with the same account you used to register and enroll in AP class sections.
AP Score Distribution 2023 Breakdown
Here’s the list of subjects in increasing order of pass rates (scores of 3 or higher):
Subject | Percentage (3 or higher) |
---|---|
AP Latin | 47% |
AP US History | 48% |
AP European History | 49% |
AP Chemistry | 50% |
AP World History | 50% |
AP Physics 1 | 45% |
AP Music Theory | 61% |
AP Calculus AB | 58% |
AP English Literature & Composition | 57% |
AP English Language & Composition | 56% |
AP Psychology | 60% |
AP Statistics | 60% |
AP Microeconomics | 66% |
AP Macroeconomics | 64% |
AP Art History | 64% |
AP German | 66% |
AP Biology | 64% |
AP Calculus BC | 74% |
AP French | 74% |
AP Seminar | 69% |
AP Italian | 69% |
AP Computer Science Principles | 68% |
AP Spanish Literature | 67% |
AP Computer Science A | 67% |
AP Comparative Government & Politics | 71% |
AP Physics C: Mechanics | 66% |
AP Japanese | 76% |
AP Art and Design 3D Portfolio | 76% |
AP Spanish Language | 84% |
AP Research | 84% |
AP Chinese | 85% |
AP Art and Design Drawing Portfolio | 85% |
AP Physics 2 | 68% |
AP Human Geography | 54% |
AP US Government and Politics | 38% |
AP Environmental Science | 53% |
AP Macroeconomics | 64% |
AP Physics C: Electricity & Magnetism | 68% |
The subjects are listed in increasing order based on the pass rates (scores of 3 or higher) from lowest to highest.
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AP Score Distribution – Mean Score Analysis
Subject | Mean Score |
---|---|
AP English Language & Composition | 2.81 |
AP US History | 2.56 |
AP English Literature and Composition | 2.84 |
AP World History | 3.04 |
AP US Government and Politics | 2.59 |
AP Psychology | 2.89 |
AP Calculus AB | 2.98 |
AP Biology | 3.03 |
AP Human Geography | 2.74 |
AP Statistics | 2.88 |
AP Environmental Science | 2.77 |
AP Physics 1 | 2.52 |
AP Computer Science Principles | 3.03 |
AP Macroeconomics | 3.05 |
AP Chemistry | 3.24 |
AP Calculus BC | 3.72 |
AP Microeconomics | 3.15 |
AP European History | 2.94 |
AP Computer Science A Exam | 3.20 |
AP Seminar | 3.29 |
AP Physics C: Mechanics Exam | 3.35 |
AP Art and Design 2D Portfolio | 3.37 |
AP Research | 3.33 |
AP Spanish Literature | 2.95 |
AP Art History | 3.01 |
AP Comparative Government & Politics | 3.13 |
AP Physics C: Electricity & Magnetism | 3.42 |
AP French (total group) | 3.17 |
AP Art and Design Drawing Portfolio | 3.48 |
AP Music Theory | 3.03 |
AP Chinese (total group) | 3.93 |
AP Art and Design 3D Portfolio | 3.05 |
AP Latin | 2.80 |
AP German (total group) | 3.11 |
AP Japanese (total group) | 3.63 |
AP Italian | 3.22 |
AP Physics 2 | 3.09 |
The table presents the mean scores for all Advanced Placement (AP) subjects in 2023, providing a comprehensive overview of student performance. Higher mean scores indicate stronger proficiency, while lower scores may suggest more challenging courses.
This data offers valuable insights for educators and students, guiding efforts to enhance academic achievements. It highlights the importance of academic excellence and recognizes the diverse skill sets and interests of students in various AP subjects.
Top 10 Hardest AP Subjects in 2023 based on AP Scores
Here are the subjects with the top 10 lowest pass rates (3 or higher):
Subject | Mean Score |
---|---|
AP Physics 1 | 2.52 |
AP US History | 2.56 |
AP US Government and Politics | 2.59 |
AP Human Geography | 2.74 |
AP Environmental Science | 2.77 |
AP Latin | 2.8 |
AP English Language & Composition | 2.81 |
AP English Literature and Composition | 2.84 |
AP Statistics | 2.88 |
AP Psychology | 2.89 |
The list represents the top 10 hardest Advanced Placement (AP) subjects based on the mean score for the year 2023. These courses, known for their rigor and academic challenges, have garnered lower mean scores among students who took the respective exams. Topping the list are AP Physics 1, AP US History, and AP US Government and Politics, where students achieved average scores of 2.52, 2.56, and 2.59, respectively. The list also includes other demanding subjects such as AP Human Geography, AP Environmental Science, and AP English Language & Composition.
Top 10 Easiest AP Subjects in 2023 based on AP Scores
Here are the subjects with the top 10 highest pass rates (3 or higher):
Subject | Mean Score |
---|---|
AP Chinese | 3.93 |
AP Calculus BC | 3.72 |
AP Japanese | 3.63 |
AP Art and Design Drawing Portfolio | 3.48 |
AP Physics C: Electricity & Magnetism | 3.42 |
AP Art and Design 2D Portfolio | 3.37 |
AP Physics C: Mechanics | 3.35 |
AP Research | 3.33 |
AP Seminar | 3.29 |
AP Chemistry | 3.24 |
The table represents the top 10 easiest Advanced Placement (AP) subjects based on the mean scores for the year 2023. These courses have earned higher mean scores among students who took the respective exams, indicating that they are comparatively less challenging. At the top of the list are AP Chinese (total group) with a mean score of 3.93, closely followed by AP Calculus BC with a mean score of 3.72, and AP Japanese (total group) with a mean score of 3.63.
These subjects are considered less daunting by students, resulting in higher average scores. The list also includes other relatively accessible subjects, such as AP Art and Design Drawing Portfolio, AP Physics C: Electricity & Magnetism, and AP Art and Design 2D Portfolio, all of which have received commendable mean scores
AP Score Distribution 2023
The AP Score Distribution for 2023 provides a comprehensive analysis of the performance of students in various subjects. This examination of score distribution offers valuable insights into the overall achievements of test-takers.
The data reveals patterns and trends, showcasing subjects where students excelled and areas where improvement may be needed. Educators and policymakers can utilize this information to assess the effectiveness of educational programs and tailor support accordingly.
The 2023 AP Score Distribution serves as a valuable resource for evaluating student performance and shaping future educational initiatives.
AP English Language 2023 Score Distribution
AP English Language & Composition Scores 2023
Subject | AP English Language & Composition | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 10% | 20% | 26% | 29% | 15% |
AP United States History 2023 Score Distribution
AP US History Scores 2023
Subject | AP US History | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 11% | 15% | 22% | 23% | 29% |
AP English Literature 2023 Score Distribution
AP English Literature & Composition Scores 2023
Subject | AP English Literature and Composition | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 9.3% | 17.3% | 33.5% | 27.7% | 12.2% |
AP World History 2023 Score Distribution
AP World History Scores 2023
Subject | AP World History | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 15% | 22% | 28% | 22% | 13% |
AP US Government & Politics 2023 Score Distribution
AP US Government and Politics Scores 2023
Subject | AP US Government and Politics | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 13% | 11% | 25% | 24% | 27% |
AP Psychology 2023 Score Distribution
AP Psychology Scores 2023
Subject | AP Psychology | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 17% | 23% | 20% | 12% | 28% |
AP Calculus AB 2023 Score Distribution
AP Calculus AB Scores 2023
Subject | AP Calculus AB | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 22% | 16% | 20% | 22% | 20% |
AP Biology 2023 Score Distribution
AP Biology Scores 2023:
Subject | AP Biology | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 14% | 23% | 27% | 24% | 12% |
AP Human Geography 2023 Score Distribution
AP Human Geography Scores 2023:
Subject | AP Human Geography | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 16% | 20% | 18% | 14% | 32% |
AP Statistics 2023 Score Distribution
AP Statistics Scores 2023:
Subject | AP Statistics | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 15% | 22% | 23% | 16% | 24% |
AP Environmental Science 2023 Score Distribution
AP Environmental Science Scores 2023:
Subject | AP Environmental Science | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 8% | 28% | 17% | 27% | 20% |
AP Spanish Language & Culture 2023 Score Distribution
AP Spanish Language Scores 2023
Subject | AP Spanish Language | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 24% | 30% | 30% | 14% | 3% |
AP Physics 1 2023 Score Distribution
AP Physics 1 Scores 2023
Subject | AP Physics 1 | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 8% | 18% | 19% | 28% | 27% |
AP Computer Science Principles 2023 Score Distribution
AP Computer Science Principles Scores 2023
Subject | AP Computer Science Principles | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 12% | 23% | 33% | 20% | 12% |
AP Macroeconomics 2023 Score Distribution
AP Macroeconomics Scores 2023
Subject | AP Macroeconomics | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 16% | 23% | 25% | 22% | 14% |
AP Chemistry 2023 Score Distribution
AP Chemistry Scores 2023
Subject | AP Chemistry | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 15% | 27% | 33% | 17% | 8% |
AP Calculus BC 2023 Score Distribution
AP Calculus BC Scores 2023
Subject | AP Calculus BC | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 42% | 16% | 20% | 16% | 6% |
AP Microeconomics 2023 Score Distribution
AP Microeconomics Scores 2023
Subject | AP Microeconomics | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 18% | 26% | 22% | 21% | 13% |
AP European History 2023 Score Distribution
AP European History Scores 2023
Subject | AP European History | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 13% | 21% | 25% | 29% | 12% |
AP Computer Science A 2023 Score Distribution
AP Computer Science A Exam Scores 2023
Subject | AP Computer Science A Exam | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 27% | 22% | 18% | 10% | 23% |
AP Seminar 2023 Score Distribution
AP Seminar Scores 2023
Subject | AP Seminar | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 11% | 20% | 57% | 11% | 1% |
AP Physics C – Mechanics 2023 Score Distribution
AP Physics C: Mechanics Scores 2023
Subject | AP Physics C: Mechanics Exam | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 23% | 28% | 22% | 15% | 12% |
AP Art and Design: 2-D 2023 Score Distribution
Subject | AP Art and Design 2D Portfolio | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 12% | 31% | 41% | 14% | 2% |
AP Research 2023 Score Distribution
AP Research Scores 2023
Subject | AP Research | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 13% | 26% | 45% | 13% | 3% |
AP Spanish Literature & Culture 2023 Score Distribution
AP Spanish Literature Scores 2023
Subject | AP Spanish Literature | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 8% | 22% | 37% | 23% | 10% |
AP Art History 2023 Score Distribution
AP Art History Scores 2023
Subject | AP Art History | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 13% | 23% | 28% | 24% | 12% |
AP Government & Politics – Comparative 2023 Score Distribution
AP Comparative Government & Politics Scores 2023
Subject | AP Comparative Government & Politics | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 16% | 23% | 32% | 16% | 13% |
AP Physics C – E&M 2023 Score Distribution
AP Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism Scores 2023
Subject | AP Physics C: Electricity & Magnetism | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 31% | 24% | 13% | 20% | 12% |
AP French Language & Culture 2023 Score Distribution
AP French Scores 2023
Subject | AP French | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 12% | 25% | 37% | 20% | 6% |
AP Art and Design: Drawing 2023 Score Distribution
AP Art and Design Drawing Portfolio Scores 2023
Subject | AP Art and Design Drawing Portfolio | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 16% | 33% | 36% | 13% | 2% |
AP Physics 2 2023 Score Distribution
AP Physics 2 Scores 2023
Subject | AP Physics 2 | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 15% | 17% | 36% | 26% | 6% |
AP Music Theory 2023 Score Distribution
AP Music Theory Scores 2023
Subject | AP Music Theory | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 20% | 17% | 24% | 24% | 15% |
AP Chinese Language & Culture 2023 Score Distribution
AP Chinese Scores 2023
Subject | AP Chinese | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 50% | 17% | 18% | 6% | 9% |
AP Art and Design: 3-D 2023 Score Distribution
AP Art and Design 3D Portfolio Scores 2023
Subject | AP Art and Design 3D Portfolio | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 7% | 25% | 40% | 23% | 4% |
AP Latin 2023 Score Distribution
AP Latin Scores 2023
Subject | AP Latin | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 12% | 17% | 28% | 25% | 18% |
AP German Language & Culture 2023 Score Distribution
AP German Scores 2023
Subject | AP German | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 19% | 21% | 26% | 20% | 14% |
AP Japanese Language & Culture 2023 Score Distribution
AP Japanese Scores 2023
Subject | AP Japanese | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 47% | 9% | 19% | 9% | 17% |
AP Italian Language & Culture 2023 Score Distribution
AP Italian Scores 2023
Subject | AP Italian | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scores | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Percentage | 20% | 22% | 29% | 18% | 11% |
Source: Trevor Packer (Head of Advanced Placement Programme at Collegeboard)
Understanding AP Score Distribution 2023
In summary, the AP score distribution for 2023 serves as a valuable tool for gauging student performance and identifying both the most challenging and accessible subjects. The data allows educators and students to comprehend the academic landscape, driving efforts towards academic improvement and recognizing the diverse abilities and interests of learners in various AP courses.
Beyond the AP Scores: How to check my AP Credit for College Application?
AP scores can have a significant impact on earning college credit. Many universities have established credit policies that outline the minimum AP scores required to receive credit for specific subjects. These policies vary among institutions, with some granting credit for scores as low as 3, while others may require a score of 4 or 5.
Our blog on AP Credit Policies covers the universities and their minimum AP score requirements to earn a college credit in detail
Conclusion
In conclusion, the AP score distribution for the year 2023 offers valuable insights into the performance of students across various subjects. The data reveals both the top 10 hardest and easiest subjects based on mean scores, providing a glimpse of the academic challenges students faced and their achievements.
The analysis of these scores can guide educators and students in understanding the rigor and proficiency of different AP courses, fostering continuous improvement in academic outcomes. By recognizing the diversity of skill sets and interests among students, the AP program continues to promote a well-rounded education that prepares learners for future success.
When do the AP Scores come out?
The Advanced Placement (AP) Exams Scores for 2023 have been released by College Board on their official website.
Which AP Subject was the hardest in 2023?
AP Latin was the hardest subject in 2023 with a low pass rate (scoring 3 or higher) of 47%. It was followed by AP US History at 48% and AP European History at 49%. These subjects have been consistently in the hardest AP Subjects over the past decade.
What is the AP Score Distribution for 2023?
The AP score distribution for 2023 for students scoring 3 or higher were as follows: AP Latin: 47%
AP US History: 48%
AP European History: 49%
AP Chemistry: 50%
AP World History: 50%
AP Physics 1: 45%
AP Music Theory: 61%
AP Calculus AB: 58%
AP English Literature & Composition: 57%
AP English Language & Composition: 56%
AP Psychology: 60%
AP Statistics: 60%
AP Microeconomics: 66%
AP Macroeconomics: 64%
AP Art History: 64%
AP German: 66%
AP Biology: 64%
AP Calculus BC: 74%
AP French: 74%
AP Seminar: 69%
AP Italian: 69%
AP Computer Science Principles: 68%
AP Spanish Literature: 67%
AP Computer Science A: 67%
AP Comparative Government & Politics: 71%
AP Physics C: Mechanics: 66%
AP Japanese: 76%
AP Art and Design 3D Portfolio: 76%
AP Spanish Language: 84%
AP Research: 84%
AP Chinese: 85%
AP Art and Design Drawing Portfolio: 85%
AP Physics 2: 68%
AP Human Geography: 54%
AP US Government and Politics: 38%
AP Environmental Science: 53%
AP Macroeconomics: 64%
AP Physics C: Electricity & Magnetism: 68% , read the detailed analysis on the blog
What is a passing AP Score?
A passing AP score is the minimum score required on an AP exam to earn college credit. The passing score varies by subject and is usually between 3 and 5. However, different colleges may have their own specific requirements, so it’s important to check with the institution you’re interested in.
Is 3 on an AP Exam good?
Scoring a 3 on an AP exam is generally considered a decent achievement. It demonstrates a solid understanding of the subject and shows that you can perform at a college level. However, the significance of a 3 may vary depending on the college or university you are applying to, as their policies regarding AP scores may differ. It’s important to research the specific requirements of your target institutions to understand how they view a score of 3.
Can you retake an AP exam?
Yes, College Board allows you to retake an AP exam if you want to improve your score or were not satisfied with your initial performance. It’s important to note that retaking an AP exam requires registering and paying the exam fee again
How do I log in to AP Classroom?
To log in to AP Classroom, follow these steps:
Visit the official College Board website (collegeboard.org).
Click on the “AP Students” or “AP Central” section, depending on how the website is organized.
Look for the “AP Classroom” link or tab and click on it.
You will be directed to the AP Classroom login page.
Enter your username and password. Note that your username is usually your College Board account username.
Once you have entered your login credentials, click on the “Log In” or “Sign In” button.
If the entered information is correct, you will be logged in to your AP Classroom account, where you can access resources, assignments, practice exams, and more.
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