Can You Delete or Withdraw AP Scores Once They Are Scored?

Many students and parents wonder if it's possible to delete or withdraw AP (Advanced Placement) scores after they have been scored. Unfortunately, once an AP score has been submitted and reported, it cannot be deleted. However, there are certainly ways to manage your scores, especially if you feel that a particular score may not be in your best interest for college applications. Let's explore the options available to you.

Understanding the Permanent Nature of AP Scores

The College Board, which administers the AP exams, does not permit the deletion or removal of scored results. AP scores are a permanent record and will be included in your official score report. This means that any score you receive, whether it is high or low, will remain on your record unless you take specific actions to manage it.

Options for Managing Your AP Scores

While you cannot delete a scored AP score, you do have the option to cancel or withdraw a score if you have not yet submitted it. Here are the steps and considerations involved:

Can You Cancel a Score?

Yes, you can cancel your AP score by filling out the AP score cancellation form. The College Board provides detailed instructions on the form, so please read them carefully to avoid any issues.

Steps to Cancel a Score

Familiarize yourself with the AP score cancellation process. Fill out the AP score cancellation form provided by the College Board. Follow the payment instructions, if applicable. Make sure to note deadlines and any associated fees.

It's important to remember that if you cancel a score, it will be entirely removed from your record. You will not be able to restore the score later.

Withholding Scores

Another option is to withhold your scores from colleges. This means that the score will not be sent to the colleges but will still be a part of your official score report. You will need to pay a fee to withhold the score, but you can always restore and send it later if needed. However, if you indicate a college on your AP answer sheet to receive a free report, all your scores will be sent to that college, including those from previous years. Therefore, it's crucial to be mindful of the implications of this decision.

Additional Considerations

If you decide to cancel or withhold a particular AP score, you should also consider the impact on your school transcript. Some schools include AP exam scores in their transcripts. To ensure your personal records are updated accordingly, consult with your school registrar or guidance counselor. They can guide you on the best course of action to remove or adjust the score on your transcript.

If you are concerned about a low AP score affecting your college applications, focus on achieving higher scores in future exams. Colleges often consider the highest AP scores or a combination of scores when evaluating applicants.

It's also worth noting that while canceling or withholding scores can be helpful, it's important to weigh the potential impact on your overall application. Remember that the cost of cancellation is permanent, so consider the situation carefully before taking any action.

In conclusion, while you cannot delete an already scored AP exam, you have options to manage your scores effectively. Whether you choose to cancel, withhold, or simply not report a score, it's crucial to understand the implications and seek guidance from the appropriate sources.