AP 3D Art and Design
Course Description
AP 3D Art and Design is a college-level course that challenges students to create works that engage with space and form through sculptural and dimensional approaches. Using materials such as clay, wood, metal, wire, textiles, and found objects, students develop their artistic voice while exploring principles of 3D design like balance, proportion, and texture. Throughout the course, students build a portfolio that demonstrates creative thinking, conceptual development, and technical skill in three-dimensional media.
Key Components:
Sustained Investigation: A series of works exploring a central visual idea or theme through three-dimensional design
Selected Works: Five finished pieces that showcase mastery of materials and techniques
Written Commentary: Descriptions and reflections that explain process, material choices, and artistic decisions
AP Exam Details
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AP 3D Art and Design does not have a traditional written exam. Instead, students are assessed entirely through a digital portfolio, submitted to the College Board in May, which makes up 100% of the AP score. The portfolio includes:
Sustained Investigation: 15 digital images that document the development of a cohesive body of 3D work exploring a central idea, including process images and written commentary.
Selected Works: 5 images of finished three-dimensional artworks that demonstrate skillful execution and thoughtful design, along with descriptions of materials, processes, and ideas.
Helpful Info
College Board
College Board
AP 3D Art and Design Score Distribution
- From 2020 to 2024, the pass rate (scores of 3 or higher) held steady around 72%–76%, with 2024 at 72.0% (6.2% earned a 5, 24.3% a 4, and 41.4% a 3) and a mean score of approximately 3.04.
- Over that period, scores displayed moderate consistency: 5s fluctuated between about 6% and 7%, 4s hovered in the mid‑20s, 3s around 40%, and lower scores (2s & 1s) together made up roughly 28%–29%.
- In 2025, performance dipped slightly: 7% earned a 5, 25% a 4, and 40% a 3—totaling a pass rate of 72%—with 24% receiving a 2 and 4% a 1, indicating similar overall difficulty compared to recent years.
Tips & Feedback
Share your best techniques, materials advice, and creative strategies or ask for constructive feedback on your 3D art projects. Whether you’re troubleshooting a sculpture’s structure, refining your ceramic glazing, or polishing your artist statement, this section is here to help you grow and succeed.
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