How AP World History Scoring Works
The AP World History: Modern exam uses a comprehensive scoring system that evaluates your knowledge across multiple question types. Understanding how each section contributes to your final score can help you strategize your preparation and test-taking approach.
The Composite Score System
Your raw scores from each section are weighted according to their percentage of the total exam. These weighted scores are then combined to create a composite score on a 0-100 scale, which is finally converted to an AP score of 1-5.
| Section | Questions | Time | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multiple Choice | 55 questions | 55 minutes | 40% |
| Short Answer (SAQ) | 3 questions | 40 minutes | 20% |
| Document-Based (DBQ) | 1 essay | 60 minutes | 25% |
| Long Essay (LEQ) | 1 essay | 40 minutes | 15% |
Important Note: There is no penalty for guessing on the multiple choice section. Always answer every question, even if you need to make an educated guess.
Section-by-Section Breakdown
Multiple Choice (Section I, Part A)
The multiple choice section consists of 55 questions that test your ability to analyze primary and secondary sources, including written texts, images, maps, charts, and graphs. Questions are grouped in sets of 3-4 questions that refer to the same stimulus material.
- 55 questions worth 1 point each (55 raw points maximum)
- Tests all historical thinking skills and reasoning processes
- Covers content from all 9 units of the course
- Approximately 1 minute per question recommended pace
Short Answer Questions (Section I, Part B)
The SAQ section requires you to respond to questions about historical developments, processes, and sources. Each question has multiple parts (usually a, b, c) that you must address with specific historical evidence.
- 3 questions, each scored 0-3 points (9 raw points maximum)
- Questions 1 and 2 are required; Question 3 offers a choice
- Must use specific historical examples and evidence
- About 13 minutes per question recommended
Document-Based Question (Section II, Part A)
The DBQ asks you to analyze 7 primary source documents and use them, along with outside knowledge, to construct a well-organized essay that answers the prompt.
DBQ Rubric (0-7 points):
- Thesis (0-1): Makes a historically defensible claim
- Contextualization (0-1): Provides relevant historical context
- Evidence (0-3): Uses documents and outside evidence effectively
- Analysis (0-2): Demonstrates complex understanding
Long Essay Question (Section II, Part B)
The LEQ gives you a choice of three prompts covering different time periods. You must construct an essay with a clear thesis supported by historical evidence.
LEQ Rubric (0-6 points):
- Thesis (0-1): Makes a historically defensible claim
- Contextualization (0-1): Provides broader historical context
- Evidence (0-2): Uses specific historical examples
- Analysis (0-2): Demonstrates historical reasoning
AP Score Ranges and Cut Points
The College Board uses a statistical process called equating to set cut scores each year, ensuring that an AP score represents the same level of achievement regardless of when the exam was taken. While exact cut scores vary annually, historical patterns give us reliable estimates.
| AP Score | Qualification | Composite Range | Typical % |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | Extremely Well Qualified | 73-100 | ~10-12% |
| 4 | Well Qualified | 58-72 | ~20-25% |
| 3 | Qualified | 42-57 | ~25-30% |
| 2 | Possibly Qualified | 27-41 | ~20-25% |
| 1 | No Recommendation | 0-26 | ~10-15% |
What Score Do You Need?
- For most college credit: A score of 3 or higher typically earns credit at many colleges
- For selective colleges: Many require a 4 or 5 for credit or placement
- For Ivy League/Top Schools: Often require a 5 and may only offer placement, not credit
Pro Tip: Check your target colleges' AP credit policies on their websites. Requirements vary significantly between institutions and may change year to year.
Study Strategies by Section
Multiple Choice Success
- Practice analyzing primary sources quickly - focus on author, purpose, audience, and context
- Review key developments in each of the 9 units
- Use process of elimination - usually 2 answers can be quickly ruled out
- Watch for absolute words like "always" or "never" - these are often incorrect
- Time yourself during practice to build stamina for 55 questions
Short Answer Question Tips
- Read all parts of the question before writing
- Use specific historical examples - dates, names, places matter
- Address each part (a, b, c) directly and separately
- Keep answers concise but complete - no need for full essay structure
- Practice with released College Board SAQs
DBQ Mastery
- Use the 15-minute reading period wisely - annotate documents
- Group documents by theme, perspective, or argument
- Include outside evidence beyond the documents provided
- Address sourcing (HAPP: Historical context, Audience, Purpose, Point of view)
- Aim to use 6-7 documents effectively
LEQ Excellence
- Choose the prompt where you have the strongest evidence
- Write a clear, arguable thesis in your introduction
- Use specific evidence from multiple time periods or regions
- Demonstrate complex understanding through comparison, causation, or continuity/change
- Plan your essay briefly before writing