AP Statistics
Course Description
AP Statistics is a college-level course that allows students to develop and showcase their understanding of data analysis, probability, and statistical reasoning. The course emphasizes interpreting data, designing studies, drawing conclusions, and understanding variability in real-world and theoretical contexts. Students explore patterns, make predictions, and justify decisions using statistical methods and clear communication.
Key Components:
Conceptual Understanding: Core topics including data collection, one-variable and two-variable analysis, sampling and experimentation, probability, and inference
Analytical Applications: Statistical investigations that require students to analyze distributions, compare groups, model random processes, and interpret results
Multiple Representations: Interpretation and communication of data using graphs, tables, formulas, and written explanations
Justification and Reasoning: Clear, context-driven explanations of statistical conclusions, supported by correct use of terminology, logic, and evidence
AP Exam Details
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AP Statistics has a traditional written exam administered in May, which is scored by the College Board and makes up 100% of the AP score. The exam includes:
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Multiple-Choice Section: 40 questions that assess knowledge of statistical concepts, procedures, and interpretation across major topics such as data analysis, probability, and inference.
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Free-Response Section: 6 problems, including 5 short-answer questions and 1 investigative task, requiring students to analyze data, justify conclusions, and communicate statistical reasoning in context.
The exam is evaluated for accuracy, reasoning, communication, and the ability to apply statistical methods clearly and appropriately in real-world and theoretical scenarios.
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Helpful Info
Abel Maestas
Allen Tsao The STEM Coach
Fiveable
AP Statistics Score Distribution
From 2020 to 2024, the pass rate (score of 3 or higher) remained fairly stable around 58%–62%, with 2024 showing a 61.8% pass rate—17.5% earned a 5, 21.8% a 4, and 22.5% a 3. The mean score that year was 2.96.
Performance in 2023 and 2022 was nearly identical, both years with a 60%–60.4% pass rate and mean scores of 2.89, showing slight dips compared to earlier years, though score distributions remained consistent.
In 2025, performance held steady with 17% scoring a 5, 21% a 4, and 22% a 3, resulting in a 60% pass rate. This consistency suggests continued rigor and predictability in how students perform year to year.
Tips & Feedback
Use this space to ask questions about tricky concepts, like when to use a t-distribution vs. z-distribution, or how to interpret residual plots. Get feedback on written justifications, discuss calculator functions for confidence intervals and tests, or clarify what conditions must be met for inference procedures. Whether you're stuck on simulation strategies or need help choosing between statistical tests, this is the place to get support and build precision in your reasoning.
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