Taking AP course and not AP exam

Test Preparation AP Test Preparation
1

Hi

This year I am in AP Physics 1. I don’t feel extremely comfortable with the content (lots of conceptual issues in understanding content) and we are moving slowly in school so I don’t think we will cover all the content and have plenty of review time before the AP exam. I was wondering if it is better to take the exam with the potential for a poor score (3 or maybe a 2) OR if it is better to opt out of the exam.

Also I have heard mixed things about colleges being able to view AP scores. Do you get to choose the scores that are sent to colleges? If this choice is available, maybe I should take the exam. Even if I do not score well this year, I could take it again next year and send in only that score.

Honestly I am not completely sure and any advice/thoughts are welcome!

Thank you!

2

Yes, you can choose what score you send to your colleges. In fact, you don’t even have to send AP scores until after you get accepted and enroll. I would (1) make sure that AP Physics 1 provides college credit in the colleges you are interested in attending, and (2) take it even if you think you have a slight chance of getting a 3 or higher. It’s better to be safe than sorry if getting a good score can save you money in college… there’s always a chance next year to improve if you don’t do as well!