AP Credit at Princeton University
Score requirements, placement rules, and the recent policy change at Princeton.
Last updated: · Based on Princeton's published policies
Princeton made a significant change to its AP policy starting with the Class of 2029 (students entering Fall 2025). Previously, students with strong AP scores could earn Advanced Standing and potentially graduate early. That option has been eliminated. AP scores at Princeton now serve one purpose: helping you place into more advanced courses. This is an important distinction for students who were counting on AP credits to reduce their time or cost at Princeton.
AP Score Requirements at Princeton
AP scores are used for placement only — no credit is awarded. Each department sets its own placement standards. Here is how common AP exams are typically used at Princeton:
| AP Exam | Score for Placement | Placement Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| AP Calculus AB | 4-5 | Skip intro calculus; place into higher math |
| AP Calculus BC | 4-5 | Place into multivariable calculus or linear algebra |
| AP Biology | 4-5 | Place into advanced biology courses |
| AP Chemistry | 4-5 | Fulfill engineering chemistry prerequisite |
| AP Physics 1 | 4-5 | Departmental placement decision |
| AP English Language | 4-5 | Departmental placement decision |
| AP US History | 4-5 | Departmental placement decision |
| AP Psychology | 4-5 | Departmental placement decision |
| AP Computer Science A | 4-5 | Departmental placement decision |
| AP Statistics | 4-5 | Departmental placement decision |
Placement vs. Credit at Princeton
Princeton offers placement only — there is no AP credit toward graduation. Placement allows you to skip introductory courses and move directly into higher-level coursework. For engineering students, AP scores in math, physics, and chemistry can fulfill prerequisites for engineering courses. For other students, AP scores may satisfy some major or certificate requirements, depending on the department. However, none of this reduces the total number of courses you need to graduate.
Maximum Credits and Restrictions
There are no AP credits at Princeton — the concept does not apply. Since Advanced Standing was discontinued for the Class of 2029 and beyond, AP scores cannot reduce your time at Princeton or your graduation requirements. All students complete four full years. Score reports must be sent directly from College Board; self-reported scores are not accepted.
How to Send AP Scores to Princeton
Send your official AP scores to Princeton through College Board using institution code 2672. Scores must be sent directly from College Board. Even though AP scores no longer earn credit, sending them is still important for course placement during orientation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Princeton accept AP credit?
As of the Class of 2029 (Fall 2025), Princeton has discontinued Advanced Standing. AP scores no longer earn units of credit toward graduation. However, AP scores can still be used for course placement (skipping intro courses) and fulfilling some major, certificate, or engineering prerequisites.
What AP score do you need for Princeton placement?
Placement requirements vary by department at Princeton, but scores of 4 or 5 are typically needed for placement into advanced courses. Each department determines independently how AP scores are used for placement decisions.
Can you graduate early from Princeton with AP credit?
No. Starting with the Class of 2029, Princeton no longer allows early graduation through AP credits. Advanced Standing has been discontinued. All students are expected to complete four full years regardless of their AP scores.
AP credit policies are based on publicly available information from Princeton's advising website as of early 2026. Policies may change at any time. Always verify directly with Princeton's advising office for the most current requirements. This page is not affiliated with or endorsed by Princeton University or College Board.