Advanced Placement in Biology

AP and IB Credit Policy

Biology Professor Dan Cristol standing in classroom with students in front of a chalkboard

Advanced Placement (AP) & International Baccalaureate (IB)

Entering students who have completed college-level work before enrolling at William & Mary are encouraged to take the College Board Advanced Placement Examination. Credit earned through these programs can be applied directly toward your degree requirements.

Introductory Biology Credit (Fall 2022 – Present)

For students who earn a score of 5 or higher on the AP Biology or IB Biology examination, the Biology Department awards 8 total credits (lecture and lab).

Credit Distribution:

Summary of BIOL 203 and 204 lecture and laboratory credit equivalencies for incoming students
Course Number	Description	Credits
BIOL 203	Introduction to Molecules, Cells, & Development	3
BIOL 203L	Introduction to Molecules, Cells, & Development Lab	1
BIOL 204	Introduction to Organisms, Ecology, & Evolution	3
BIOL 204L	Introduction to Organisms, Ecology, & Evolution Lab	1

Consultation & Advising

If you are unsure about the strength of your biology background, we recommend consulting with an advisor to determine the best starting point for your studies:

General Biology Inquiries: Contact the Chair of Biology, Dr. Matthias Leu.
Pre-Med/Pre-Dental Students: Contact the Chief Health Professions Advisor, Dr. Beverly Sher.
Revoking Credit: If you wish to retake BIOL 203 or 204 at W&M, you may petition to revoke your AP/IB credits through The Advising Center.

Policy for Students Enrolled Before Fall 2022

If you began at William & Mary before Fall 2022 and received elective credit under the old policy, you may request to have those credits converted to match the current BIOL 203/204 policy.

To Request a Change: Email Dr. Matthias Leu, who will coordinate the update with the Registrar’s Office.