Highlighting AP Scores on your Common Application

With AP scores just released by the College Board, most students are excited about the college credits they earned or about the English or Math class they hopefully won’t have to take in college. But, your AP scores also help you highlight your academic ability in a variety of ways. They not only show the rigor of courses you took on during the academic year, but also highlight the subjects you master and excel in at the college level. You can show this to colleges in a few ways on your Common Application.

Those with a 3 or higher on three or more AP tests earn an academic honor they can list on their application. We recommend listing this in the Education section under honors on the Common Application. These specific honors are:

• AP Scholar - 3 or higher on three or more exams

• AP Scholar with Honors - Granted to students who receive an average score of at least 3.25 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams.

• AP Scholar with Distinction - Granted to students who receive an average score of at least 3.5 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on five or more of these exams.

You can also self report the AP scores you wish to report and future AP tests under the common app testing section. While AP classes and exams are not for everyone, if you choose to take an AP test, we encourage you to take the exam and report what can help you!