The AP Computer Science Principles exam consists of two main components: a multiple-choice section and a Create performance task with written responses. 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
Section 2: Create Performance Task & Written Responses
PREDICTED AP® SCORE
0 | Score range: 1 - 5
SECTION SCORES
Multiple Choice Score
0 / 70
Create Task & Written Response Score
0 / 30
Combined Composite Score
0 / 100
Aiming for a 5?
Take a free practice test →The AP Computer Science Principles exam is divided into two main components:
| Section | Question Type | Time | Questions | Exam Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Section 1 | Multiple Choice | 2 hours | 70 questions | 70% |
| Section 2 | Create Performance Task & Written Response | 9 hours (task) + 1 hour (written) | Project + 2 questions | 30% |
The MC section accounts for 70% and the performance task for 30%, for a composite out of 100.
| AP Score | Composite Score Range | Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 90–100 | Extremely Well Qualified |
| 4 | 81–89 | Well Qualified |
| 3 | 62–80 | Qualified |
| 2 | 45–61 | Possibly Qualified |
| 1 | 0–44 | No Recommendation |
These cutoffs are estimates. View all AP exam score ranges on our AP Score Range page.
About 64% of students score a 3 or higher on AP CSP:
| AP CSP Score | Percentage of Students |
|---|---|
| 5 | 10.9% |
| 4 | 20.0% |
| 3 | 33.1% |
| 2 | 20.3% |
| 1 | 15.7% |
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 strong for college credit.
| Institution Type | Minimum Score | Typical Credit Granted |
|---|---|---|
| Ivy League / Top 20 | 5 | Placement (credit varies) |
| Selective Private Universities | 4 or 5 | 3 credits (Intro Computing) |
| Large Public Universities | 3, 4, or 5 | 3 credits (Intro Computing) |
| Community Colleges | 3 | 3 credits |
No. Answer every question — your score is based only on correct answers.
AP CSA is a rigorous Java programming course. AP CSP covers broader computing concepts — the internet, data, algorithms, and societal impact — with less emphasis on coding. CSP is more accessible for beginners.
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 Principles score?
Start with a full-length diagnostic and get a study plan that targets the exam questions and the Create performance task.