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How AP or IB exam scores count

ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) EXAMS

In general, at UC Merced a score of 3 or higher on most AP exams may:

  • Count as a specific class in your major and complete that major requirement
  • Exempt you from needing to take a preparatory class
  • Fulfill a certain General Education (GE) requirement
  • Allow you to take more advanced courses in that subject
  • Count as units toward the 120 units required for every UC Merced degree
  • Help you graduate sooner by reducing the number of courses needed at UC Merced

 

To see the number of units awarded and how AP exam scores count, use the chart in the 2024-25 Catalog:

 

To see which class you are eligible to take at UC Merced after completing certain AP exams:

 

INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB) EXAMS

In general, at UC Merced a score of 5 or higher on most IB Higher Level (HL) exams may:

  • Count as a specific class in your major and complete that major requirement
  • Exempt you from needing to take a preparatory class
  • Fulfill a certain General Education (GE) requirement
  • Allow you to take more advanced courses in that subject
  • Count as units toward the 120 units required for every UC Merced degree
  • Help you graduate sooner by reducing the number of courses needed at UC Merced

 

To see the number of units awarded and how IB exam scores count, use the chart in the 2024-25 UC Merced Catalog:

 

If you have questions about which class to take at UC Merced after completing certain IB exams, talk with your BAC academic advisor.

 

Note:

  • UC Merced does not award credit for IB Standard Level (SL) exams.
  • If you completed the IB diploma with a score of 30 or above, you will receive 20 semester units toward your UC Merced degree.

 

SENDING OFFICIAL AP OR IB SCORES TO UC MERCED

Scores must be sent directly from College Board or International Baccalaureate to be considered official.

 

If you have a two-part last name (hyphenated or not hyphenated), be sure that the name on your AP or IB score report exactly matches the name on your UC application.

  • AP and IB scores are matched to your UC record by comparing the exact name.
    • If part of your name is missing, the AP or IB score may not be added to your record.
  • If you need to adjust the name on your AP score report:
  • If you need to adjust the name on your IB score report: