Exam Structure
The AP English Language and Composition exam tests your ability to analyze rhetoric and construct persuasive arguments.
| Section | Details | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| I. Multiple Choice | 45 Questions (Reading & Writing) | 45% |
| II. Free Response | 3 Essays (Synthesis, Rhetorical, Argument) | 55% |
Score Distribution (2024)
AP Lang is a high-volume exam. In 2024, only about 9% of students achieved a perfect 5, making it a very exclusive score.
| AP Score | Meaning | % of Students |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | Extremely Well Qualified | 9.0% |
| 4 | Very Well Qualified | 21.0% |
| 3 | Qualified | 26.0% |
| 2 | Possibly Qualified | 29.0% |
| 1 | No Recommendation | 15.0% |
Score Conversion (Estimated)
| Composite ( / 100) | AP Score |
|---|---|
| 73 - 100 | 5 |
| 60 - 72 | 4 |
| 48 - 59 | 3 |
| 35 - 47 | 2 |
| 0 - 34 | 1 |
The "4-4-4" Strategy
If you score a 4 out of 6 on every essay and get about 30/45 MCQs correct, you are solidly in the range for a 4 or 5. You do NOT need perfect essays to get a top score.
Consistency is key.
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