Should I Send AP Scores?

When It Makes Sense

• Good fit: You are applying to schools that explicitly state they consider AP scores for admission or credit, and you have scores of 4 or 5 that demonstrate mastery of subjects relevant to your intended major.
• Good fit: You are a competitive applicant with a modest GPA and want to provide additional evidence of academic rigor, especially if the AP exam aligns with a major you plan to pursue.

When You Should Avoid It

• Warning sign: The colleges you’re applying to do not use AP scores for admission or credit, or they charge a fee for each score you send, making the cost outweigh any marginal benefit.
• Warning sign: Your scores are lower than 3, which may raise doubts about your preparedness for college-level work and could weaken rather than strengthen your application.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Strong scores can earn college credit, allowing you to skip introductory courses, potentially saving tuition and time.
• High scores demonstrate subject‑specific mastery, which can bolster your academic profile, especially for selective programs.

Cons

• Each transmitted score typically incurs a fee; multiple scores can become costly for families on a budget.
• If scores are modest, colleges may use them as a benchmark and expect higher performance in related coursework.

Decision Checklist

• Do the colleges you’re applying to list AP scores as part of their evaluation or credit policies?
• Are your scores 4 or 5 in subjects that are directly relevant to your intended field of study?
• Will the cost of sending scores fit within your application budget, and can you afford any potential fee per score?

Alternatives to Consider

If sending AP scores feels risky, you can instead submit official SAT/ACT scores, highlight relevant coursework on your transcript, or provide a strong personal statement that explains your academic interests. Some schools also accept SAT Subject Test scores or offer placement exams that may be less costly.

Final Recommendation

Overall, send your AP scores when they are strong (4‑5), align with your intended major, and the target colleges value them for admission or credit. If scores are lower, or the schools do not consider them, it is safer to forgo sending and focus on other components of your application. For high‑stakes decisions—especially at highly selective institutions—consult your school counselor or a college‑admissions advisor to ensure the choice fits your overall strategy.