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AP Seminar

Course Description

AP Seminar is the first course in the AP Capstone program, designed to help students develop critical thinking, research, writing, and collaboration skills through the exploration of real-world issues. Over the year, students investigate topics of global or local significance, evaluate sources for credibility, and craft evidence-based arguments through research reports, multimedia presentations, and oral defenses. The course emphasizes communication, inquiry, and the ability to synthesize diverse perspectives—skills that are essential for college and beyond.

Key Components:

  • Exploring complex, real-world questions

  • Analyzing and evaluating arguments

  • Conducting team and individual research projects

  • Writing evidence-based essays

  • Presenting and defending findings

AP Exam Details

  • The AP Seminar Exam is taken in May and lasts 2 hours. It consists of two parts:

    • Part A requires students to analyze an argument presented in a single source.

    • Part B asks students to synthesize information from a set of provided sources to develop and support their own evidence-based argument.

    This written exam counts for 40% of the final AP Seminar score, with the remaining 60% coming from the performance tasks completed during the school year.

Helpful Info

What is AP Seminar? (Get to know the basics)

AP Capstone Corner

Preparing for Part A of the End-of-Course Exam

College Board

Preparing for Part B of the End-of-Course Exam

College Board

Share your Opinion

AP Seminar Score Distribution

  • From 2020 to 2024, AP Seminar pass rates (scores of 3 or higher) remained steady between 80.7% and 85.7%, with mean scores consistently ranging from 3.06 to 3.24.

  • In 2025, the pass rate reached its highest point at 86%, with 10% earning a 5, 19% a 4, and 57% a 3, continuing the strong performance trend.

  • Scores of 1s and 2s gradually declined over the years, dropping from a combined 19.2% in 2020 to just 14% in 2025, indicating fewer low-performing students.

Forums
AP Seminar Forum
 

AP Seminar Forum

Welcome to the AP Seminar Forum—a space for students to ask questions, share insights, and collaborate on everything related to the AP Seminar course. Whether you're analyzing arguments, preparing for your performance tasks, or gearing up for the end-of-course exam, this forum offers support and ideas from peers and experienced students. Connect here to exchange strategies, get feedback, and strengthen your skills in research, reasoning, and communication.

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AP Seminar Forum
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Tips & Feedback

Share your strategies for analyzing sources, writing evidence-based arguments, and succeeding on the performance tasks and exam. This section is dedicated to practical advice and peer-to-peer support—whether you're stuck on your Individual Research Report or looking for presentation tips, this is where you’ll find guidance and encouragement.

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