AP Physics Mechanics Score

Applying to College
1

Hi all,
I recently took the AP Physics C: Mechanics test and sadly only scored a 3 on the test. However, I had a A+ in my high school course. I am currently taking Physics 4B which is the equivalent of AP Physics C: E&M at a local community college, and doing well in it.

I want to know how a 3 on the mech test will effect my admission into a college like Stanford or a UC for engineering program. I would also like to know if anyone knows it Stanford of the UC’s accept a 3 on the mech test… is it better I retake it? What will happen if I dont report it? Also what will happen if I pass Physics 4b and either submit my ap score for the mech test or don’t. will i still receive credit for 4b? and will i just have to retake mech in college?

Thanks for the help!

2

Thanks for any responses!

3

I got into Stanford, Cal, and UCSD (putting down chemistry as my major interest) having gotten a 3 on the AP Chem exam. I self-reported the score on my application, and it didn’t seem to affect me getting admission, so it shouldn’t affect you! You might still need to retake mechanics though, depending on the college.

As for getting credit for 4B, that also depends on which college you go to (they may or may not accept credit).

4

Not at all. AP scores carry little to no weight in the admissions process. Now if you had all 3’s and 2’s, but A’s in the class, the college would probably question the grading policy at your HS. But one exam - no effect.