AP Human Geography Score Calculator

Estimate your AP exam score and see if you'll earn college credit

Enter Your Scores

Section 1: Multiple Choice

Worth 50% of your total score

Section 2: Free Response Questions

Worth 50% of your total score combined

Your Estimated Score

AP Score
4
Well Qualified
MC Section
45/60
(75.0%)
FRQ Section
15/21
(71.4%)
Composite Score
87.9 / 120Score range: 72-89

🎯 Quick Answer

Based on 45 correct multiple choice answers and FRQ scores of 5, 5, and 5, your estimated AP Human Geography score is 4 (Well Qualified). This score typically qualifies for college credit!

Published By ChallengeAnswer Editorial Team
Reviewed by
Dr. Snezana Lawrence
Dr. Snezana LawrencePhD in Mathematical History
Dr. Snezana Lawrence

Dr. Snezana Lawrence

Mathematical Historian

15+ years experience

PhD from Yale University. Published mathematical historian ensuring precision in all calculations.

Education

PhD in Mathematical History - Yale University

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πŸ“‹ AP Human Geography Exam Format

The AP Human Geography exam is 2 hours and 15 minutes long and consists of two sections:

Section 1: Multiple Choice

  • β€’ 60 questions
  • β€’ 60 minutes
  • β€’ 50% of exam score
  • β€’ Includes stimulus-based questions with maps, data, images

Section 2: Free Response

  • β€’ 3 questions
  • β€’ 75 minutes
  • β€’ 50% of exam score
  • β€’ 1 question requires analysis of stimulus material

Course Topics Covered

1. Thinking Geographically (8-10%)
2. Population & Migration (12-17%)
3. Cultural Patterns (12-17%)
4. Political Patterns (12-17%)
5. Agriculture & Rural Land Use (12-17%)
6. Cities & Urban Land Use (12-17%)
7. Industrial & Economic Development (12-17%)

πŸ“Š How the Exam is Scored

Scoring Breakdown

Multiple Choice (50%): Each correct answer earns 1 point. No penalty for wrong answersβ€”always guess!

Free Response (50%): Each FRQ is scored 0-7 points based on rubric criteria. Points are awarded for specific elements.

FRQ Scoring Tips

  • Define: Provide a clear, accurate definition of the term (1 point)
  • Describe: Explain characteristics or features (1-2 points)
  • Explain: Discuss causes, effects, or significance (2-3 points)
  • Apply: Use examples or connect to real-world situations (1-2 points)

πŸ“ˆ Score Ranges and What They Mean

AP ScoreQualificationApprox. Composite% of Students (2023)
5Extremely Well Qualified90-120~15%
4Well Qualified72-89~18%
3Qualified54-71~20%
2Possibly Qualified36-53~22%
1No Recommendation0-35~25%

πŸŽ“ College Credit Policies

Most colleges award credit for AP Human Geography with a score of 3 or higher, but policies vary:

Score 5

Credit at most colleges, often 3-4 credits

Score 4

Credit at many colleges

Score 3

Credit at some colleges

Important:

Always check your target college's specific AP credit policy. Selective schools may require a 4 or 5 for credit, while others accept 3. Some schools offer elective credit rather than course exemption.

πŸ’‘ Tips for a Higher Score

1

Learn the Vocabulary

Geography has unique terms. Know definitions for terms like "push-pull factors," "cultural diffusion," and "urban sprawl."

2

Practice Map Skills

Many questions include maps, charts, and graphs. Practice interpreting spatial data.

3

Use Real-World Examples

FRQs reward specific examples. Know case studies for each topic area.

4

Answer Every Part

FRQs have multiple parts (a, b, c). Address each part separately for full credit.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What score do I need to pass AP Human Geography?

A score of 3 or higher is considered passing and may qualify for college credit. However, many competitive colleges require a 4 or 5 for credit.

How is the AP Human Geography exam scored?

The exam has two sections: Multiple Choice (60 questions, 50% of score) and Free Response (3 questions, 50% of score). Raw scores are combined and converted to a 1-5 scale.

Is AP Human Geography hard?

AP Human Geography is considered one of the more accessible AP exams, with about 53% of students scoring 3 or higher. It's often taken as a first AP course.

Should I guess on multiple choice?

Yes! There's no penalty for wrong answers on AP exams. Always answer every question, even if you have to guess.

Dr. Snezana Lawrence
Expert Reviewer

Dr. Snezana Lawrence

Mathematical Historian | PhD from Yale

Dr. Lawrence is a published mathematical historian with a PhD from Yale University. She ensures mathematical precision and accuracy in all our calculations, conversions, and academic score calculators. Her expertise spans computational mathematics and educational assessment.

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