<p>How much does the score you get on the AP exam matter? I am in AP Chem right now, and the teacher is new, so the scores are generally not that great. It is an honor just to receive a three. If I only get a three, will it be okay, or should I self study and get on par with the rest of the country?</p>
<p>Two Answers.</p>
<p>If you are a junior, it matters a little. Stanford allows students to self-report AP scores, so you have the choice on whether or not to send it. So if you get a 3, don’t worry. Just don’t self-report the scores. They play a very small factor anyways.</p>
<p>If you are a senior, you will already be accepted or rejected before you take the test, so it won’t matter at all. Stanford gives very few AP credits, and when they do it is only for 5s and rarely 4s.</p>
<p>Our D’s high school reported all test scores on her transcript. Stanford saw a 2 and a 3 among her AP scores and still let her in (and her one attempt at the SAT scoring a 1850). She was admitted regular decision. Report what you want.</p>
<p>AP Exams weren’t designed to be used as college admission factors like the SAT, SAT Subject Tests, or ACT. They were designed to assist in earning college credits while in high school. So technically, AP scores aren’t <em>supposed</em> to be used as factors in determining college acceptance. So they really don’t matter all that much (like other posters mentioned, they’re nearly always self-reported).</p>
<p>Okay, that’s a relief. Thank you.</p>
<p>“AP scores that are reported are acknowledged but rarely play a significant role in the evaluation of an application. Grades earned over the course of a semester, or a year, and evaluations from instructors who can comment on classroom engagement allow us the most detailed insight into a student’s readiness for the academic rigors of Stanford.” - Stanford Admissions website</p>