How AP CSP Scoring Works
The AP Computer Science Principles exam uses a composite scoring system that combines your performance on two main components: the multiple choice section and the Create Performance Task. Understanding how these sections are weighted helps you strategize your preparation.
Section Weights
- 70 questions total
- 2 hours to complete
- Single-select and multi-select questions
- No penalty for guessing
- 6 points maximum
- Completed during school year
- Includes program code and written responses
- Submitted before exam day
From Raw Score to AP Score
Your raw scores from both sections are converted to a composite score using the weights above. This composite score is then mapped to the 1-5 AP scale through a process called “equating,” which ensures fairness across different exam years.
Important Note: The exact score thresholds can vary slightly from year to year as the College Board adjusts the curve based on exam difficulty. Our calculator uses historical averages to provide the most accurate predictions.
AP CSP Exam Structure
The AP Computer Science Principles exam tests your understanding of the five Big Ideas in computing through two assessment components.
Multiple Choice Section
The multiple choice section contains 70 questions to be completed in 2 hours:
- Single-Select Questions: Choose one correct answer from four options
- Multi-Select Questions: Choose two correct answers from four options
- Reading Passage Sets: Some questions are based on provided passages or scenarios
- Code Tracing: Questions requiring you to trace through pseudocode
- Concept Questions: Testing understanding of computing principles
Topics Covered
| Big Idea | Exam Weight | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|
| Creative Development | 10-13% | Program design, collaboration, documentation |
| Data | 17-22% | Binary, data compression, metadata, visualization |
| Algorithms & Programming | 30-35% | Variables, loops, conditionals, procedures, lists |
| Computing Systems | 11-15% | Internet, protocols, fault tolerance, parallel computing |
| Impact of Computing | 21-26% | Ethics, bias, security, intellectual property |
AP Score Thresholds
Based on historical data from recent AP CSP exams, here are the approximate composite score ranges needed for each AP score:
| AP Score | Qualification | Composite % | Typical MC + CPT |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | Extremely Well Qualified | 64%+ | 60-70 MC, 5-6 CPT |
| 4 | Well Qualified | 51-63% | 50-59 MC, 4-5 CPT |
| 3 | Qualified | 40-50% | 40-49 MC, 3-4 CPT |
| 2 | Possibly Qualified | 29-39% | 30-39 MC, 2-3 CPT |
| 1 | No Recommendation | 0-28% | <30 MC, 0-2 CPT |
Disclaimer: These thresholds are estimates based on historical data. The College Board adjusts score boundaries each year based on overall exam performance. Your actual AP score may differ from these predictions.
Create Performance Task Scoring
The Create Performance Task is a programming project that demonstrates your ability to design and implement a program with a purpose. It is scored on a 6-point rubric with specific criteria.
Scoring Rubric (6 Points Total)
Describes the overall purpose of the program, the input, and the output demonstrated in the video.
Shows a list being used to manage complexity. Includes code segments showing data stored in the list and data being used from the list.
Explains how the named, selected list manages complexity in your program. Describes an alternative approach without the list.
Shows a student-developed procedure with at least one parameter that affects functionality. Includes the procedure call.
Includes sequencing, selection, and iteration in the procedure. Explains in detail how the algorithm works.
Describes two calls to the procedure with different arguments, the conditions being tested, and the expected results.
Tips for Maximizing Your CPT Score
- Start early and iterate on your program multiple times
- Make sure your procedure has at least one parameter that affects output
- Use a list meaningfully - not just for storage but to manage complexity
- Include sequencing, selection (if/else), and iteration (loops) in your procedure
- Test with multiple inputs and document the results clearly
- Be specific in your written responses - vague answers lose points
How We Calculate Your Score
Our AP CSP score calculator uses the official College Board weighting system combined with historical score data to predict your AP score.
Calculation Methodology
Step 1: Calculate Section Percentages
MC Percentage = (Correct Answers / 70) × 100CPT Percentage = (Your Score / 6) × 100Step 2: Apply Section Weights
Composite Score = (MC Percentage × 0.70) + (CPT Percentage × 0.30)Example: 50/70 MC (71.4%) and 5/6 CPT (83.3%) = (71.4 × 0.70) + (83.3 × 0.30) = 50.0 + 25.0 = 75.0%
Step 3: Map to AP Score
The composite score is mapped to the 1-5 scale using historical thresholds:
- 64% and above → AP Score 5
- 51% to 63% → AP Score 4
- 40% to 50% → AP Score 3
- 29% to 39% → AP Score 2
- Below 29% → AP Score 1
Accuracy Note: This calculator provides estimates based on publicly available College Board data and historical trends. Actual score thresholds may vary by 2-5 percentage points depending on the exam year and overall student performance.