AP Scores (not impressed)

Applying to College
1

So today is the day I received my 2015 AP scores. Here are the results:

Calculus BC: 5 (both test and AB subscore)
Biology: 3
US History: 2

I’m delighted about calc (math is my best subject). However, the other two place negative pressure on me. Thus, I am in a dilemma of putting AP on my college apps. From what I’ve researched, some people say that a college seeing a bad score can make them doubtful about my effort in class. Others however mention that choosing not to input the score can cause skepticism as to what happened to the test. Either way, it seems like I will be negatively impacted by college admissions.

So, I want your input as to what is the best action for me to take. In addition, I also want to know how important are AP tests compared to say subject tests, college essays, ACT, and all of those other factors.

Thanks everyone! I feel a little overwhelmed. Most likely, AP’s are only there to determine my course placement, but if you could help, I will gladly appreciate it.

How much do AP exams

2

Bump

3

Don’t bump after 18 minutes. People are not standing by waiting for posts to answer.

What do you mean, best action to take? What’s done is done; you can’t change that part. Focus on the things you can impact.

They’re pretty far down on the pecking order IMO.

4

@skieurope Thanks so much. What I mean by “best action” is whether or not I should put my scores on my application. As a matter of fact, I am focusing on other factors in admissions, considering that I’m writing a rough draft of a college essay and preparing hardcore for the September ACT.

5

I would not put my scores on my application. They are neither requested nor necessary.

6

I don’t think AP scores are that important in application, but they can make you look better.

The 5 on AP Calc BC is great, but a 2 looks pretty bad. Colleges could see that as an indication of great laziness in class… I would probably not include those scores on an application to a good school, but it depends where you apply.

7

Not reporting scores on your application, however, may raise eyebrows. If you don’t self report the score and the class appears on your transcript, colleges may assume that:
• Financial hardship prevented you from taking the exam
• You were not motivated enough to take the exam
• You took the exam and performed poorly (1 or 2)
The first one will not affect your application; the last 2 may raise an eyebrow. AO’s can, and have, contacted GC’s to explain why there are no AP scores reported on the application.