The AP Computer Science A exam consists of two sections: multiple choice and free response questions. The exam is scored on a scale of 1 - 5, with a 5 being the highest possible score.
The scores in this calculator are estimates based on previous scoring curves. The actual scoring curve may vary year to year.
Instructions
Enter your scores for each section using the sliders below to calculate your estimated AP score.
Section 1: Multiple Choice
Free Response Question 1
Free Response Question 2
Free Response Question 3
Free Response Question 4
PREDICTED AP® SCORE
0 | Score range: 1 - 5
SECTION SCORES
Multiple Choice Score
0 / 40
Free Response Score
0 / 40
Combined Composite Score
0 / 80
Aiming for a 5?
Take a free practice test →The AP Computer Science A exam is divided into two main sections:
| Section | Question Type | Time | Questions | Exam Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Section 1 | Multiple Choice | 1 hour 30 minutes | 40 questions | 50% |
| Section 2 | Free Response | 1 hour 30 minutes | 4 questions | 50% |
Total exam time: 3 hours
Both sections contribute equally, for a composite out of 80.
(correct answers / 40) × 40. No penalty for incorrect answers.(FRQ total / 36) × 40.| AP Score | Composite Score Range | Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 62–80 | Extremely Well Qualified |
| 4 | 47–61 | Well Qualified |
| 3 | 37–46 | Qualified |
| 2 | 29–36 | Possibly Qualified |
| 1 | 0–28 | No Recommendation |
These cutoffs are estimates. View all AP exam score ranges on our AP Score Range page.
About 67% of students score a 3 or higher on AP Computer Science A:
| AP Computer Science A Score | Percentage of Students |
|---|---|
| 5 | 25.6% |
| 4 | 21.4% |
| 3 | 20.1% |
| 2 | 10.8% |
| 1 | 22.0% |
Curious how this compares to other AP exams? Check out our AP Tier List for a full ranking by difficulty and pass rate.
A score of 3 or higher is generally considered passing. A 4 or 5 is a strong score for CS program admissions and college credit.
| Institution Type | Minimum Score | Typical Credit Granted |
|---|---|---|
| Ivy League / Top 20 | 5 | Placement (credit varies) |
| Selective Private Universities | 4 or 5 | 3–4 credits (Intro CS / CS1) |
| Large Public Universities | 3, 4, or 5 | 3–4 credits (Intro CS / CS1) |
| Community Colleges | 3 | 3–4 credits (Intro CS) |
No. Answer every question — your score is based only on correct answers.
AP Computer Science A focuses on Java programming, algorithms, and data structures. AP CSP covers broader computing concepts including the internet, data, and impact of computing, with less emphasis on coding. CSA is more rigorous and earns more college credit.
While not strictly required, students with some Java or general programming experience tend to do better. The exam expects proficiency in writing and debugging Java code.
This calculator uses estimated cutoffs based on historical data. Actual cutoffs may vary slightly each year.
The exam is typically in May. Check our AP Test Dates 2026 page for the exact date.
Ready to raise your AP Computer Science A score?
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