APUSH Score Calculator
Enter your estimated raw scores from practice tests. The calculator converts them into a composite score (0–100) and predicts an AP score (1–5) using a simple model based on typical APUSH weighting:
- MCQ – 55 questions • ~40% of score
- SAQ – 9 points • ~20% of score
- DBQ – 7 points • ~25% of score
- LEQ – 6 points • ~15% of score
Cutoffs here are approximate. Real exam curves vary slightly each year.
Count only correctly answered multiple-choice questions.
Each SAQ is usually worth 3 points. Total across all questions.
Score your DBQ using the 7-point rubric.
Score your long essay with the 6-point LEQ rubric.
Estimated Results
These are unofficial estimates based on a simple model. Real exam curves may differ.
Predicted AP Score
3
Likely in the passing range (around a 3).
Section Weighting
- MCQ – 40%
- SAQ – 20%
- DBQ – 25%
- LEQ – 15%
Curve (Approximate)
- 5 ≈ 80–100
- 4 ≈ 65–79
- 3 ≈ 45–64
- 2 ≈ 30–44
- 1 < 30
How to use this result
• If your predicted score is below your goal, check which inputs are lowest. • Use the Scoring Explained page to see how many points you need to move up a band.
• Follow the 3-month APUSH study plan to improve your weak sections over time.
APUSH Study Resources Connected to This Calculator
The calculator is most powerful when you understand how each section is scored and use practice to steadily raise your composite. These free guides are designed to work together with the calculator:
APUSH Scoring Explained
Learn exactly how raw scores from MCQ, SAQ, DBQ, and LEQ combine into a composite and final AP score.
APUSH Score Distribution
See typical score distributions (1–5) and understand how likely it is to earn a 3, 4, or 5.
APUSH DBQ Rubric
Break down all 7 DBQ points so you can raise this high-value section of your score quickly.
APUSH LEQ Rubric
Understand the 6-point LEQ rubric and how to turn content knowledge into a structured argument.
3-Month APUSH Study Plan
Follow a 12-week schedule that combines content review, practice questions, DBQs, LEQs, and regular check-ins using this calculator.
APUSH Tips & Guides Hub
Browse strategy articles for getting a 5, DBQ and LEQ examples, and recommended resources and practice tests – all organised in one place.
How This APUSH Score Calculator Works
This calculator uses a simplified model of typical AP U.S. History scoring guidelines. It isn’t an official College Board tool, but it gives a realistic estimate when you use scores from a timed practice exam.
Step 1 – Convert each section to its weight
- MCQ: (correct / 55) × 40
- SAQ: (points / 9) × 20
- DBQ: (points / 7) × 25
- LEQ: (points / 6) × 15
These percentages are based on typical APUSH exam weighting.
Step 2 – Add up to a composite and map to 1–5
The weighted section scores are added to create a composite out of 100. Then we use approximate cutoffs:
- 80–100 → AP score ≈ 5
- 65–79 → AP score ≈ 4
- 45–64 → AP score ≈ 3
- 30–44 → AP score ≈ 2
- Below 30 → AP score ≈ 1
Actual exam curves change from year to year, but this range matches many published examples.
APUSH Score Calculator – Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is this APUSH score calculator? ⌄
It is an estimate, not a guarantee. The weighting and cutoffs are based on typical AP U.S. History scoring patterns, but the College Board can adjust the curve each year. Use this tool to understand your approximate range and which sections to improve, not as an exact prediction.
Where do I get my MCQ, SAQ, DBQ, and LEQ scores? ⌄
Use scores from a realistic practice source: released AP exams, teacher-made tests, or high-quality practice books. For DBQ and LEQ, ask your teacher to grade using the official rubrics or compare your work to scored samples, then enter the 0–7 (DBQ) and 0–6 (LEQ) values here.
What if one section (like DBQ) is dragging my score down? ⌄
That’s exactly what this tool is for. If your DBQ or LEQ score is much lower than MCQ/SAQ, focus your next 2–3 weeks on writing practice: use the DBQ rubric and LEQ rubric, then plug new scores into the calculator to see how much your composite improves.
How often should I use the calculator during my APUSH prep? ⌄
A good rhythm is every 2–3 weeks, or after each major practice exam. Combine it with a structured plan like the 3-month APUSH study plan so each score check-in is connected to real changes in how you’re studying.
About This Calculator
The APUSH Score Calculator and its companion guides are created and maintained by Rohit Chauhan, with the goal of making AP U.S. History scoring less confusing and helping students see exactly where to focus their effort.
Data sources include publicly available scoring information, sample scoring guidelines, and teacher-style practice curves. This site is not affiliated with the College Board.
Last updated: February 2025 • Found an error or have a suggestion? Please reach out via our Contact Us page.