AP Credit at Boston University
Score requirements, qualifying exams, and how AP credit works across BU's schools and colleges.
Last updated: · Based on BU's published policies
Boston University accepts AP credit for a wide range of exams, making it moderately generous among private universities of its selectivity. Most qualifying AP scores earn 4 credits per exam toward the 128-credit graduation requirement. AP credit can also help satisfy BU Hub requirements — BU's general education framework — in certain areas. Policies vary slightly depending on which school or college you are enrolled in at BU.
AP Score Requirements at Boston University
Most exams require a 4 or 5, with some accepting a 3. Here are the key AP exams and their credit equivalents:
| AP Exam | Score Required | BU Credit |
|---|---|---|
| AP Calculus AB | 4 or 5 | CAS MA 123; 4 credits |
| AP Calculus BC | 4 or 5 | CAS MA 123 & 124; 8 credits |
| AP Biology | 4 or 5 | CAS BI 107/108; 4 credits |
| AP Chemistry | 4 or 5 | CAS CH 101; 4 credits |
| AP Physics C: Mechanics | 4 or 5 | CAS PY 211; 4 credits |
| AP Physics C: E&M | 4 or 5 | CAS PY 212; 4 credits |
| AP Physics 1 | 4 or 5 | Elective credit; 4 credits |
| AP Computer Science A | 4 or 5 | CAS CS 111; 4 credits |
| AP Statistics | 4 or 5 | CAS MA 113; 4 credits |
| AP English Language | 4 or 5 | CAS WR 120; 4 credits |
| AP English Literature | 4 or 5 | CAS EN elective; 4 credits |
| AP US History | 4 or 5 | CAS HI elective; 4 credits |
| AP World History | 4 or 5 | CAS HI elective; 4 credits |
| AP Psychology | 4 or 5 | CAS PS 101; 4 credits |
| AP Macroeconomics | 4 or 5 | CAS EC 102; 4 credits |
BU awards 4 credits per qualifying AP exam, which matches the standard BU course credit value. AP Calculus BC is especially valuable, earning 8 credits for both semesters of calculus.
BU Hub and AP Credit
Some AP credits can satisfy BU Hub requirements. The BU Hub is BU's general education framework that requires students to develop skills across multiple areas. Certain AP credits can count toward Hub areas like Quantitative Reasoning, Scientific Inquiry, or Social Inquiry, though not all AP credits map to Hub requirements. Check with your academic advisor for specifics.
Maximum Credits and Restrictions
BU does not impose a strict maximum on AP credits. Most students earn between 8 and 24 credits from AP exams. AP credits are particularly useful for students in the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS), where they can reduce the number of required courses. Engineering students in ENG should verify which AP credits apply to their program's specific requirements.
How to Send AP Scores to Boston University
Send your official AP scores to BU through College Board using institution code 3087. Scores must be sent directly from College Board. Submit your scores early to ensure credit is applied before fall registration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Boston University accept AP credit?
Yes, Boston University accepts AP credit for many exams. Most exams require a score of 4 or 5, though some accept a 3. BU is moderately generous with AP credit — qualifying scores earn 4 credits per exam and can count toward the 128-credit graduation requirement. Policies vary slightly by school and college within BU.
What AP score do you need for Boston University?
BU requires a 4 or 5 on most AP exams for credit. A few exams like AP English Language and AP US History may accept a 3 for elective credit. STEM exams including AP Biology, AP Chemistry, and AP Physics C generally require a 4 or 5. Each qualifying exam earns 4 credits toward graduation.
How many AP credits does Boston University accept?
BU does not impose a strict cap on AP credits, but most students earn between 8 and 24 AP credits. Credits count toward the 128-credit graduation requirement. AP credit can satisfy BU Hub requirements in some areas and help students reach advanced courses earlier or pursue double majors.
AP credit policies are based on publicly available information from Boston University's registrar website as of early 2026. Policies may change at any time. Always verify directly with BU's AP credit page for the most current requirements. This page is not affiliated with or endorsed by Boston University or College Board.