Navigating the AP Exam Score Release: What Higher Scores Mean and How to Move Forward

Yesterday, scores from the Advanced Placement exams were released. This is always a highly anticipated event, filled with both excitement and anxiety. This year, I am thrilled by the higher passing rates in AP US History. After years of frustration, feeling like student competency and proficiency were not resulting in college credit, the College Board has finally adjusted. Yes, the rubrics changed, but it is still a testament to the hard work of teachers and students alike.

View my thoughts on this 72% pass rate!

Questions About the Impact of Higher Scores

While we celebrate this change, it’s also important to reflect on what higher passing rates mean in the broader context of education. I have found myself wondering if colleges and universities will now require a score of 4 or 5 to earn credit. I am also curious how this will impact high school students. Will we see more students enrolling in AP US History? Will students feel less pressure to work hard because they have a higher chance of passing? Will students work harder because they feel that they may actually have a chance of passing? 

Dealing with Disappointment

Despite the overall higher passing rates, there will always be students who didn’t achieve the scores they were hoping for and teachers who are frustrated by limited growth. It’s important to address this disappointment constructively. Remember that an AP score does not define your worth or potential. You know the phrase, “You are more than just a score!” However, that is not to say that it's not ok to be disappointed. Allow yourself the time to experience the emotions you are feeling. It is normal and expected to be upset when you don’t achieve a goal that you have worked hard for. Then, use this experience as a learning opportunity. Reflect on what worked and what didn’t, and apply those lessons to future goals. Reach out for support, whether it’s from teachers, peers, or family members, and remember that growth often comes from overcoming challenges.

Celebrating Successes

On the flip side, it’s equally important to celebrate successes, big and small. Whether you achieved a score that qualifies for college credit or saw improvements in your students’ scores, take pride in your hard work and accomplishments. For teachers who have been dealing with less than 50% pass rates for years, take a moment to celebrate. It is highly unlikely that the College Board would have made the sweeping changes that it did without our advocacy. These higher passing rates mean many more students will enter their postsecondary education with confidence and a few credits under their belt. This is a huge win! Now that the scores have been released, I hope you can take some time to rest and enjoy your summer!

Join My APUSH Bootcamp This Summer

As a reminder, if you are a teacher and are looking to build on your success or help students prepare for next year’s AP US History exam, I am offering my APUSH Bootcamp Course this summer. This intensive program is designed to provide students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to excel in APUSH. We’ll cover key content areas, practice exam techniques, and develop critical thinking skills that are essential for success not just in AP exams, but in all academic endeavors. While designed for students, I have had several teachers go through the course and express high satisfaction with the content as well as mentions of improved confidence and preparation for teaching this rigorous course. 

• Enrollment Link: AP US History Summer Bootcamp Course
• Read more about the course here!

Additionally, you can earn some extra summer cash by becoming an affiliate of the course: Simply sign up to be an affiliate and use your unique link to share with students who will be taking APUSH in the fall! If someone uses your link within 30 days of clicking on it, you will earn a 10% commission on the sale. 

As an additional incentive, every affiliate who has 5 or more successful referrals will be entered to win a $50 Amazon gift card. (Contest will conclude mid-August)

For your affiliate marketing, feel free to use this Marketing Toolkit. Be sure to tag @apushladyboss in any social media posts!

As we reflect on this year’s AP exam scores, let’s celebrate our successes, learn from our experiences, and continue to strive for excellence. I look forward to seeing many of you in the APUSH Bootcamp and supporting you on your academic journey.

Stay updated by following my socials (@apushladyboss on IG, TT, and FB) for additional information. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I'm here to provide all the guidance and support you need.

Thank you for being a valued member of my community, and I hope to continue supporting you on this exciting AP US History journey!

Best, Annie