Can You Retake AP Exams? (2026 Policy Explained)
Yes — you can retake AP exams, but only once per year. Registration rules, score reporting, and when a retake is worth it.
Short answer: Yes, you can retake AP exams — once per subject per year in May. All scores are retained unless canceled; most colleges consider your best performance.
How AP Retakes Work
- Register through your school (or authorized test center) for the next May administration.
- Take the full exam again — MCQ and FRQ together.
- Receive a new score in July alongside other AP results.
You cannot retake mid-year or split sections.
Score Reporting
- By default, all AP scores are sent to colleges you designate.
- You may withhold or cancel a score through College Board if you do not want a specific result reported.
- Many admissions readers focus on your best AP score per subject when multiple years appear.
When a Retake Makes Sense
| Situation | Retake? |
|---|---|
| Scored 2, need 3+ for credit | Often yes |
| Scored 3, target school wants 4+ for major | Maybe — check policy |
| Scored 4, wanted 5 for pride | Usually no |
| Missed exam day (illness) | Yes — official makeup via school |
Prep for a Retake
Use free AP practice tests and the subject score calculator to set a target composite before registering.
Related
Frequently asked questions
Can you retake an AP exam?
Yes. You may take any AP Exam once per year. There is no lifetime limit, but you can only sit for a given exam once each May administration.
Which AP score is sent if you retake?
College Board sends all AP scores you authorize unless you cancel a score. Colleges typically see your highest score if you report multiple years.
How much does an AP exam retake cost?
The standard exam fee applies each year you register (set by College Board plus any school fee). Fee reductions exist for eligible students.
Can you retake just the FRQ section?
No. AP retakes are full exams — you cannot retake individual sections.
When do AP retake scores come out?
Same July timeline as first attempts. See when AP scores release.
Is retaking AP Calculus worth it?
If you scored a 2 or low 3 and need a 4+ for credit at your target school, a focused summer retake prep cycle can help — but weigh cost and study time.
Sources & verification
Content verified against official College Board materials: July 2026.