How is the AP Macroeconomics exam scored?
The AP Macroeconomics exam consists of multiple sections. Your raw scores from all sections are combined into a composite score out of 90, which is then converted into the final 1–5 AP score using the year's specific curve.
| Section | Format |
|---|---|
| Section I: Multiple Choice | 60 questions (66.6% weight) |
| Section II: Free Response | 3 questions (33.3% weight) |
What do you need for a 3, 4, or 5?
While the exact cutoffs change every year depending on the difficulty of the specific test form, these are the estimated composite scores required for each AP score.
| AP Score | Composite Points | College Board Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 70–90 | Extremely well qualified |
| 4 | 55–69 | Very well qualified |
| 3 | 43–54 | Qualified |
| 2 | 30–42 | Possibly qualified |
| 1 | 0–29 | No recommendation |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is AP Macroeconomics hard?▼
It depends on your math and analytical skills. The math isn't advanced, but you must thoroughly understand graphing and economic theory models.
Are calculators allowed on AP Macroeconomics?▼
Yes, four-function, scientific, or graphing calculators are permitted on both sections of the AP Macroeconomics exam.
What do I need for a 5 on AP Macro?▼
You typically need around a 70 out of 90 composite score to earn a 5, meaning you should aim for about 78% accuracy overall.