GeneralDiploma .com

Understanding AP Exams

Learn about Advanced Placement (AP) courses and exams, how they can earn college credit, registration details, scoring, and preparation strategies.

What are AP Courses & Exams?

The Advanced Placement (AP) Program, run by the College Board, offers college-level curricula and examinations to high school students.

Benefits:

  • Earn college credit or advanced placement at thousands of universities.
  • Develop college-level academic skills.
  • Stand out in college applications.
  • Explore subjects in greater depth.
  • Potentially save time and money on tuition.

Registration & Dates

Students typically register for AP Exams through their high school's AP Coordinator. Homeschooled students or those whose school doesn't offer AP need to contact local AP Coordinators.

Timeline & Process:

  • Fall Registration: Most schools require students to register and pay for exams in the fall (usually by November).
  • AP Coordinator: Your main point of contact for registration, fees, and exam ordering.
  • Homeschoolers: Contact College Board or AP Services early (by January) to find schools administering exams.
  • Exams Held in May: AP Exams are administered globally over two weeks each May.
  • Fee reductions are available for eligible students.
AP Exam Registration Info

Exam Structure

AP Exam formats vary by subject but generally include multiple-choice questions and free-response sections (essays, problem-solving).

Common Components:

  • Multiple-Choice Section: Assesses breadth of knowledge and understanding.
  • Free-Response Section: Requires students to synthesize information, analyze evidence, write essays, or solve complex problems.

Exam lengths typically range from 2 to over 3 hours. Specific details for each subject are available on the College Board website.

View AP Course Details

Scoring & College Credit

AP Exams are scored on a 5-point scale. Colleges set their own policies for awarding credit or placement based on AP scores.

Score Scale:

  • 5: Extremely well qualified
  • 4: Well qualified
  • 3: Qualified
  • 2: Possibly qualified
  • 1: No recommendation

Most colleges grant credit or placement for scores of 3, 4, or 5, but policies vary widely. Check specific college websites for their AP credit policies.

AP Credit Policy Search

Preparation Resources

Thorough preparation using official and supplementary resources is vital for AP success.

Key Resources:

  • AP Classroom: Official College Board platform with daily videos, practice questions, and teacher resources.
  • College Board Website: Past exam questions, scoring guidelines, course descriptions.
  • AP Review Books: Barron's, Princeton Review, 5 Steps to a 5 offer subject-specific prep.
  • Khan Academy: Offers free resources aligned with some AP courses.
  • Study Groups: Collaborating with peers can be beneficial.
  • Your AP Teacher: The most valuable resource for course content and exam prep.
  • Tutoring Services: For specialized help.

Exam Day Tips

Prepare for a successful exam day experience.

Checklist:

  • Know Your Exam Schedule: Date, time, and location.
  • Acceptable Photo ID: If required by your test center.
  • No. 2 Pencils: For multiple-choice answer sheets (non-mechanical).
  • Pens: With black or dark blue ink for free-response sections.
  • Approved Calculator: If required for your specific exam (check rules).
  • Watch (Optional): Basic watch without internet/alarm features.
  • Get Good Sleep & Eat Breakfast: Fuel your brain and body.
  • Arrive Early: Allow time for check-in procedures.

Excel on Your AP Exams!

Leverage College Board's AP Classroom, practice with past exams, and explore resources to earn potential college credit.

Visit AP Students Portal

Discover top-rated AP review books in our School Store.