Assessment Overview
In AP Research, students are assessed on the academic paper and presentation and oral defense of research. The academic paper is 4,000–5,000 words, and the presentation and defense take approximately 15–20 minutes.
Encourage your students to visit the AP Research student page for assessment information.
Assessment Dates
Deadline: Students Submit Final AP Capstone (Seminar and Research) Performance Tasks
Deadline: AP Capstone (Seminar and Research) Teachers Score Student Presentation Components
Assessment Format
The AP Research assessment has consistent weighting and scoring guidelines every year, so you and your students know what to expect.
| AP Research Through-Course Performance Task—100% of AP Research Score | ||
|---|---|---|
| Component | Scoring Method | Weight |
| Academic Paper (4,000–5,000 words) | College Board scored | 75% |
| Presentation and Oral Defense (15–20 minutes total for both the presentation and 3–4 questions from a panel of 3 evaluators that follows). | Teacher scored | 25% |
AP Digital Portfolio
Review these resources for guidance on how to use the AP Digital Portfolio and sign in.
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Sign In to the AP Digital Portfolio
Sign in to the AP Digital Portfolio using your College Board account.
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About the AP Digital Portfolio
Get an overview of what the AP Digital Portfolio is and how it works.
Download
AP Digital Portfolio: Teacher User Guide for 2025-26
This guide for teachers provides information about navigating the AP Digital Portfolio and how to complete tasks specific to their course. The teacher user guide for the 2026-27 school year will be available in September.
Download
AP Digital Portfolio: Student User Guide for 2025-26
This guide helps students navigate the AP Digital Portfolio. The student user guide for the 2026-27 school year will be available in September.
Guidance for Hosting Student Presentations
See the rules and guidelines for hosting your students’ presentations whether your school is teaching remotely, in person, or in a hybrid setting.
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Guide for Hosting Student Presentations in AP Capstone Courses
Use these guidelines to manage the delivery of student presentations for AP Seminar and AP Research assessments.
Samples and Scoring Guidelines
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AP Research Performance Tasks
View sample responses and scoring guidelines for the through-course performance tasks from past years.
Score Reporting
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