a graphing calculator and its programs. But here’s the truth about calculus: most of the time, you don’t
need a calculator, so don’t get stuck trying to find the right program. Go with what you know.
Sign in to your online student tools to download and print a
handy appendix of tips aimed at getting the most out of your TI-
84.
HOW THE AP CALCULUS AB EXAM IS SCORED
A numeral score of 1 to 5 is going to be assigned to your test, based on the number of questions you’ve
answered correctly.
5 = Extremely Well Qualified
4 = Well Qualified
3 = Qualified
2 = Possibly Qualified
1 = No Recommendation
Colleges decide for themselves the minimum score they will accept for college credit and/or advanced
placement. The American Council on Education recommends the acceptance of grades 3 or above, and
many colleges adhere to these standards. About 60 percent of students who take the AP Calculus AB
Exam receive a score of 3 or higher. Check the website for each college you plan to apply to so that you
know their policy on granting credit or advanced placement.
AP Calculus—2016 Score Distributions
Score Number of Test Takers Percentage
5 76,486 24.8%
4 53,467 17.3%
3 53,533 17.4%
2 30,017 9.7%
1 94,712 30.7%
Total 308,215 100%
Data from The College Board, May 2016 AP Exam administrations