AP 2D Art and Design
Course Description
AP 2D Art and Design is a college-level course that allows students to develop and showcase their skills in two-dimensional artistic practices such as photography, graphic design, digital art, collage, painting, or printmaking. The course emphasizes creative problem-solving, conceptual thinking, and the development of a personal artistic voice through sustained investigation and experimentation. Students build a portfolio throughout the year that demonstrates both technical skill and thoughtful artistic intent.
Key Components:
Sustained Investigation: A focused body of work exploring a central idea or theme
Selected Works: A set of high-quality finished pieces showing mastery of 2D design
Process and Reflection: Written commentary to explain artistic decisions and development
AP Exam Details
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AP 2D Art and Design does not have a traditional written exam. Instead, students submit a digital portfolio by May, which is scored by the College Board and makes up 100% of the AP score. The portfolio includes:
Sustained Investigation: 15 digital images showing a cohesive exploration of a visual idea, supported by written commentary.
Selected Works: 5 high-quality pieces that demonstrate skillful use of 2D design principles, accompanied by brief descriptions of materials, processes, and ideas.
The portfolio is evaluated for inquiry, experimentation, skill, and synthesis of materials and ideas through visual and written evidence.
Helpful Info
CosmicTutoring
College Board
Win in Grace
AP 2D Art and Design Score Distribution
From 2020 to 2024, the pass rate (3+) fluctuated between about 82% and 89%, with 2024 seeing an 82.8% pass rate, 11.2% earning a 5, 28.8% a 4, and 42.8% a 3.
Specifically, top-tier performance shifted slightly over those years (5s: 12.1% in 2020 down to 11.2% in 2024; 4s: stepped down from 36.1% in 2020 to 28.8% in 2024) while mean scores hovered around 3.3–3.5.
In 2025, performance remained strong with 12% earning a 5, 29% a 4, 14% a 3, 3% a 2, and 3% a 1, resulting in an overall pass rate of 83%, indicating slight gains at the top without significant changes in overall difficulty.
Tips & Feedback
Use this space to exchange creative strategies, get feedback on your Sustained Investigation ideas, and learn what works when preparing your Selected Works. Whether you're exploring new media, organizing your portfolio, or refining your artist statement, this section is designed to help you grow your skills and confidence.
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