Can you retake AP exams? Yes — but there are rules you should know. Whether you got a 2 instead of a 4, or just want another shot, this 2025 guide explains how AP exam retakes work, what they cost, and whether it’s worth doing it again.
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Can You Retake an AP Exam?
Quick Answer: Yes, you can retake AP exams. You’re allowed to take the same AP test more than once — but only once per year, during the May testing window. You’ll need to re-register, pay the exam fee again, and both scores will show on your College Board report unless you cancel or withhold one.
Download our AP Exam Retake Decision Planner pdf.
Let’s break down what to do — and how to bounce back stronger.
Explore smart ways to use your time after AP exams for college prep and personal growth.
can you retake ap exams?
Yes, you can — but it’s not instant. AP exams only happen once a year in May, so if you’re thinking about a retake, you’re aiming for next spring.
You’ll need to register again (either through your school or independently), and yes, you’ll have to pay the full fee — around $98 in 2025. Both your old and new scores will show up unless you request to cancel or withhold one.
Learn the biggest mistakes students make on AP exams — and how to avoid them this time around.
Download our free GPA Impact Worksheet to calculate how your AP class grade affects your GPA — before and after a retake.
👉 Get the worksheet now (PDF)
Quick Facts: Retaking AP Exams in 2025
AP Exam Retake Summary Table
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can I retake the exam? | Yes, once per year |
| How many times total? | Unlimited (one per year) |
| Do I pay again? | Yes, approx. $98 per retake |
| Can I hide a score? | Yes — you can cancel or withhold one |
| Do colleges see both scores? | Usually, yes — unless you cancel or withhold |
| When are retakes offered? | Annually, during May AP testing window |
| Can I retake after graduating? | Yes, as an independent student through a local AP testing school |
From College Board:
“You may retake an AP Exam in a subsequent year. If you do, both scores will be reported unless you request that one be withheld or canceled.”
— CollegeBoard.org
💬 Not sure what to do after a poor score? Here’s what really happens when you fail an AP exam and how to recover
Should You Retake the AP Exam?
Quick Self-Check: Should You Retake?
Ask yourself:
- Did I study effectively the first time, or did I run out of time?
- Will a higher score earn me more college credit or advanced placement?
- Can I handle the extra workload while managing current school or job commitments?
Just because you can retake an AP exam doesn’t always mean you should. Before you dive into study mode again, take a step back and ask: Will retaking help you reach your goals — or stretch you too thin?
Let’s break it down.
Still unsure about retaking your AP exam?
Download our free AP Exam Decision Planner to weigh your goals, GPA impact, and college plans in one place.
👉 Click here to get the printable worksheet (PDF)
When Is It Worth Retaking an AP Exam?
Retakes should be strategic — not just for ego. Here’s when they actually matter:
- You scored a 1 or 2, and your college needs a 3+ to award credit.
- You’re aiming for selective schools where a higher AP can strengthen your transcript.
- You barely studied the first time and can prep smarter now.
- You’re relying on the score to skip intro college courses, especially in STEM or language.
- You didn’t take the class seriously but now have solid resources and motivation.
Real Talk from Reddit
“I retook AP CSA, first time I got a 4… second time I got a 5 without much extra study, it was really easy.”
— u/… on r/APStudents
“Unless it is Calc BC and you need the credit to get out of calc 1 and 2, it’s probably not worth retaking any AP exam.”
— u/WhichStorm6587 on r/APStudents
“Retaking the exam will not make you more competitive… if the college only gives credit for a 5, you can retake, but if the time reviewing impacts… your ECs, then you might just wanna move on.”
— u/skieurope12 on r/APStudents reddit.com+2reddit.com+2reddit.com+2
Who Probably Shouldn’t Retake
You might benefit from a retake if:
Sometimes it’s better to focus on new opportunities rather than rehash an old test. Retaking may not be worth it if:
- You already scored a 3+ and the schools you’re applying to either accept it or don’t offer credit anyway.
- You’re short on time or would rather spend effort on college essays, SATs, or other APs.
- You don’t feel confident that you can significantly improve your score with another attempt.
- You’re applying to colleges that look at course rigor more than specific AP scores.
🙅♀️ Example: If you scored a 3 on AP U.S. History and the colleges you’re applying to don’t give credit for it anyway, your time may be better spent elsewhere.
Wondering if your AP score is good enough? This guide to AP exam scoring and its impact on your GPA breaks it down by college credit standards.
( Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we truly believe help students succeed.)
Planning to retake next?
Planning to retake next May? Use your extra prep time wisely:
- Review your old score breakdown (ask your AP teacher if available) to identify weak areas.
- Use updated prep books like Barron’s, Princeton Review, or 5 Steps to a 5.
- Practice timed free-response questions (FRQs) monthly to build exam stamina.
- Consider joining a study group or online course for accountability.
- Use your school’s resources—some schools allow you to attend class again or consult teachers for help.
- If you self-study, set a schedule starting by January, so you’re not cramming in April.
🗓 Tip: Start light review in the fall, then increase your study hours by March. The more spaced-out your prep, the better your retention.
If you’re retaking the exam solo, check out our step-by-step self-study guide to scoring a 5 on the AP exam — perfect for students who want to take control of their prep the second time around.
Thinking of a do-over?
Prep smarter with these high-yield AP review books on Amazon or tap into affordable online AP tutors for expert guidance. A strategic retake can lead to a score boost without the burnout.
How to Retake an AP Exam (Step-by-Step)
Retaking an AP exam isn’t complicated — but it does require planning. Here’s how to do it the right way without scrambling last-minute.
Step 1: Decide Early
The College Board only offers AP exams once a year in May, so mark your calendar. Decide by fall or early winter if you’re serious about retaking — especially if you’re no longer in school and need to test as an independent student.
✅ Pro Tip: If you’re taking a gap year or switching schools, check early if your new school offers AP registration for former students.
Step 2: Register for the Exam
Retaking students must register again through:
- Your current school’s AP coordinator, or
- A local school that accepts external test-takers (check with the AP Program directly)
The AP exam fee is typically around $98, plus possible admin fees for late registration or non-students.
Step 3: Create a Focused Study Plan
This time, study with purpose. Focus on:
- Topics where you lost points last time
- High-weight units in the AP Course & Exam Description
- Practice tests that simulate real exam conditions
Ready to study smarter?
Try this AP exam self-study bundle on Amazon — includes a prep book, flashcards, and practice tests tailored for retakers. Or explore online crash courses and tutoring for more structured support.
Step 4: Practice Under Exam Conditions
Once you’re reviewing regularly, start simulating the real thing:
- Take full-length timed practice tests
- Review released FRQs from past exams
- Use scoring rubrics to self-evaluate
This helps build confidence and reduce anxiety — especially if test-day stress affected your original score.
Step 5: Confirm Score Reporting & Cancellation (Optional)
If you don’t want colleges to see both AP scores, you can:
- Cancel a score (permanently deleted)
- Withhold a score (temporarily hidden)
These requests must be submitted through the College Board by June 15 of the exam year.
Best AP Retake Resources
A smart retake starts with the right materials. Whether you’re self-studying or getting extra help, here are the best tools to raise your score with less stress.
1. High-Yield AP Prep Books (Updated for 2025)
Not all prep books are created equal. For retakers, you want materials that:
- Focus on practice questions and test strategies
- Include updated content for 2025
- Offer full-length practice tests and detailed answer breakdowns
Top-Rated AP Prep Books – Updated for 2025 on Amazon:
🔹 Princeton Review Cracking the AP Exam 2025 (All Subjects Available)
🔹 Barron’s AP Series – Best for In-Depth Content
🔹 5 Steps to a 5 – Great for Last-Minute Review
Not sure how a higher score might affect your GPA? Try our AP GPA Estimator Tool to see how a retake could change your academic standing.
2. Online AP Courses & Crash Reviews
Need structure or feel overwhelmed with self-study?
Consider Affordable Online Tutors, budget-friendly online help:
- AP Daily Videos (free on AP Classroom)
- Fiveable – Live cram sessions + replays
- Khan Academy – Free courses for major AP subjects
- Outschool AP Tutors – Personalized help in small group settings
- Wyzant Tutors – 1-on-1 expert tutoring based on your subject and schedule
✅ Tip: Pair a course with a prep book to stay accountable.
3. Flashcards & Practice Apps
Repetition is key — especially for memorizing vocab, formulas, and processes.
- Quizlet – Digital decks and games
- Barron’s or Kaplan Flashcards – Physical flashcard packs
- UWorld or Albert.io – Interactive AP-style question banks
4. Free Practice from the College Board
Don’t forget the official source:
- Released FRQs and MCQs from past exams
- Scoring rubrics to grade yourself like an AP reader
- Exam guides and sample questions per subject
Visit apstudents.collegeboard.org → Choose your subject → Click “About the Exam”
Want to improve study habits across all your APs? Read our Last-Minute AP Exam Tips for cram-smart strategies that actually work.
Final Thoughts: Should You Go for That AP Retake?
Retaking an AP exam is a bold move — and sometimes, it’s the smartest one.
If your score is holding you back from college credit, placement, or confidence, it’s worth stepping up and giving it another shot. The key is to prep with purpose, using resources that actually match your learning style.
You’ve already taken the test once — now you know the format, the pressure, and the pace. That makes your second try a lot less scary.
Ready to retake with confidence?
Build your study plan with top-rated AP review books, affordable tutoring help, and flashcard bundles — and crush that score goal in May.
Boosting your GPA with a retake? Make sure you understand how GPA works in high school by reading our full GPA guide for students and parents.
Frequently Asked Questions About AP Retakes
Is it worth retaking an AP exam?
If you need a higher score for college credit, competitive applications, or personal goals — yes. Especially if you got a 2 or 3 and know you can do better with focused prep.
Will colleges see both AP exam scores?
Yes, unless you request to cancel or withhold one. Most colleges consider your highest score, but check with each school’s AP credit policy just to be sure.
Do I have to pay again to retake an AP exam?
Yes. Each retake requires a new registration fee (around $98 per subject), even if you’ve taken the test before.
What if I got a 1 or 2 — should I cancel it?
If you’re not submitting that score to colleges, you can cancel or withhold it. But keep in mind — colleges often only count your best score anyway.
Can you retake an AP exam in the same year?
No. AP exams are only administered once a year in May. If you want to retake, you’ll need to wait until the next May testing cycle.
Do AP exam retakes show both scores?
Yes. Unless you cancel or withhold one score, both will appear on your College Board report. Colleges usually consider your highest.
Do you have to pay again to retake an AP test?
Yes, you must pay the full AP exam fee again (typically $98 per exam in the U.S.). There’s no discount for retakes.
Do colleges care if you retake an AP exam?
Most colleges see all AP scores unless you choose to cancel or withhold one. A retake won’t hurt your application, but it may not significantly boost it unless your new score earns college credit or meets a program requirement.
Is it worth retaking an AP test?
It depends. If your score was a 1 or 2 and you need a 3+ for credit or placement, it may be worth it. However, retakes cost money and require serious prep. Retaking for a small improvement (like from a 4 to a 5) usually isn’t necessary.
How much does it cost to retake the AP exam?
As of 2025, the AP exam fee is around $98 per test. Some schools or states may offer fee reductions for eligible students. You’ll need to pay this fee again each time you retake.
Can you retake AP exams without taking the class again?
Yes, you can retake an AP exam without enrolling in the class again. Many students prepare on their own using books, online courses, or tutors.
What happens if you get a 1 or 2 on the AP exam?
A score of 1 or 2 usually won’t earn college credit. But it won’t automatically hurt your college application. If you’re not happy with your score, you can retake the exam next year or cancel it before sending scores.
Can you retake the AP exam in the same year?
No. AP exams are only offered once a year in May. If you want to retake it, you’ll have to wait until the next year’s testing window.
Can you retake an AP test?
Yes. “AP exam” and “AP test” mean the same thing. You can retake it during a future May exam session.
A second chance isn’t a step back — it’s a smarter comeback.
Planning to retake? Start fresh with our Free AP Study Schedule Maker for 2025 — includes Google Sheets + printable templates.
Related: What Does K–12 Mean in the U.S.? →
Nawab, an educator with a decade of K-12 teaching, holds an English honors graduate degree and a diploma in elementary education. He has also been blogging for five years, sharing insights for educators and parents.
