AP Remarks: What You Can (and Can’t) Do

Getting your AP results can feel like a big moment, especially if your score affects your college plans or future study options.

If your result is not what you expected, you might start wondering whether you can request a remark. However, AP exams work differently from qualifications such as GCSEs, A Levels and the IB.

There is no standard remark process for AP exams. Instead, only limited checks are available, and most scores cannot be changed after results are released.

This guide explains what you can and cannot do if you are unhappy with your AP score, and helps you decide what your next steps should be.

Key Takeaways

• AP exams do not offer a traditional remark or review of marking

• You can request a score verification for multiple-choice sections only

• Free-response answers are not re-marked after results are released

• Score changes are rare, so it is important to consider your options carefully

Can You Request an AP Remark?

No. Unlike other qualifications, AP exams do not offer a formal remark or review of marking service.

This is because different parts of the exam are assessed in different ways:

• Multiple-choice questions are machine marked

• Free-response questions are marked by trained examiners and checked through internal quality processes

Because of this, there is no standard system for re-marking papers after results are published. Check out our guide if you need to know more about how AP exams are scored.

What Can You Request Instead?

Although you cannot request a remark, there are limited checks available.

Multiple-Choice Score Verification

You can request a verification of your multiple-choice score.

This checks that:

• Your answers were scanned correctly

• The score was calculated accurately

It does not involve re-marking or reviewing your answers.

Free-Response Answers

Free-response answers cannot be re-marked once scores are released.

They are marked during the official grading process and checked through quality control at that stage. After results are published, no further review is available.

When Should You Query an AP Score?

In most cases, AP scores are accurate and do not change.

However, you might consider checking your score if:

• You believe there has been an administrative or technical error

• Your score is very different from your expected performance

Even in these situations, it is important to understand that score changes are rare.

How Do You Request a Score Check?

To request a multiple-choice score verification, you need to apply through the College Board (opens in a new tab).

This usually involves:

• Completing a request form

• Paying a fee

• Waiting for the outcome

If you are unsure how to proceed, your school may be able to guide you through the process.

How Much Does an AP Score Check Cost?

AP score verification involves a fee set by the College Board (opens in a new tab).

Because fees can change, you should check the latest information before applying or speak to your school for guidance.

Can Your AP Score Change?

It is possible, but very unlikely.

Score verification only checks for technical accuracy in the multiple-choice section. It does not involve re-marking written answers.

In most cases, scores remain the same after verification.

How Long Does an AP Score Check Take?

Processing times can vary.

In general, it may take several weeks for a score verification to be completed.

If there is any change, your updated result will be issued once the process is complete.

What Happens If You're Still Not Happy With Your Score?

Options for appealing AP scores are very limited.

The College Board does not offer a full appeals process or re-marking system.

If you want to understand what is possible, see our guide Can You Appeal AP Scores?

Is It Worth Requesting a Score Check?

In most situations, requesting a score check is not necessary.

Because changes are rare and limited to technical checks, it is unlikely to affect your final result.

Instead, it may be more helpful to focus on your next steps, such as:

• Using your existing scores for college applications

• Retaking an AP exam if needed

• Exploring alternative pathways into your chosen course

Frequently Asked Questions

Will Colleges Accept My AP Scores?

Yes. Colleges understand how AP scoring works and use your final reported score as part of your application.

Can I Request a Re-mark for Free-Response Questions?

No. Free-response answers are not re-marked after results are released.

Do All AP Subjects Have the Same Process?

Yes. The scoring and verification process is consistent across all AP subjects.

Final Thoughts

If your AP results are not what you expected, it is natural to look for ways to change them. However, AP exams do not offer a traditional remark system, and options for reviewing scores are limited.

Understanding how AP scoring works can help you make the right decision about what to do next. In most cases, focusing on your future options, rather than trying to change your score, is the best approach.

To give yourself the best chance of success, make sure your revision is as effective as possible. Save My Exams offers a range of expert-written AP resources to make exam prep less stressful and boost your confidence going into your exams.

References:

• AP College Board (opens in a new tab)

• How do I request a rescore of the multiple-choice section of my exam? – AP Students | College Board (opens in a new tab)