I received a 4 on AP Bio, even though I was pretty sure I would get a 5. Does this now lower my chances of being able to get into top colleges? Is it worth taking the exam again next year if I am willing to study hard?
Any advice for strengthening college apps in general?
Thank you!
No - it’s a very good score.
No. Your time is better spent on your courses next year.
AP scores don’t have any impact on admissions - don’t spend your time on studying for it again. Depending on the college, you may receive credit for your test result (some don’t award any, some it depends on the score, etc.).
@DCCAWAMIIAIL We need to be a little careful with that strong of a statement especially with holistic schools. I have heard many AO’s say they look at everything on an application. UCB and UCLA say they are considered. Stanford says it is a small/very small impact. How much impact does having an AP class from before senior year on the transcript with no AP test score reported? I have no idea. But most would say that it is not big and not worth a retake. A retake would only maybe help with rising juniors or less anyway.
@Eeyore123 You are right - I stand corrected. In this case, a 4 on AP Bio is a strong score and definitely not worthy of a retake.
But in my case, I want to pursue a biology or a life science major. I feel this getting a 4 in this exam isn’t proving to colleges that I am good at these sciences.
Your score is perfectly fine, do not stress and move on. Take the SAT subject Biology test and ace that if you are concerned.
I am a rising junior btw
I honestly don’t think it is worth retaking an AP exam ever… Most colleges only require you send the official score report after admission and it’s only for course advancement or credit.
4 on AP Biology is a reputable score. Don’t worry about it ~
You can ask the question seventeen different ways until Sunday - the answer is the same. Refer to my earlier message. Most colleges don’t admit by major, anyway.