AP Exam Scores & The College Admissions Process

High school students throughout the US are likely spending the weekend, cramming the most amount of information possible in their memory banks, before Advanced Placement (AP) exams start on May 1, 2023. 

In their anxiety, many mistake the highest score as strengthening their applications for college. SPOILER ALERT: College admissions officers don’t consider AP exam scores as part of their evaluations. The test scores only matter if the student is seeking college credits once they enroll in college. 

Thus, in this weekend before the tests begin, students can reflect if they are confident in their ability to understand the content for any particular test, to decide whether to take the AP exam or not

If students choose to skip taking one of the AP exams, then theoretically, students can focus their study efforts on the remaining tests, potentially improving their odds of earning the highest score they can. 


Creative Marbles was founded by teachers who appreciate helping students (re)discover their aptitude, first in the academic classroom, now as part of the complex college admissions process. For more information, please contact us.

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About Jill Yoshikawa, Ed M, Partner of Creative Marbles Consultancy

Jill Yoshikawa, EdM, Harvard ’99, a seasoned, 25 year educator and consultant, is meticulous in helping clients navigate all aspects of the educational experience, no matter the level of complexity. She combines educational theory with experience to advise families, schools and educators. A UCSD and Harvard graduate, as well as a former high school teacher, Jill works tirelessly to help her clients succeed.
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