You’ve studied for weeks, practiced FRQs, and reviewed every unit—now it’s time for the AP Biology exam. On test day, being prepared goes beyond just knowing the content. At RevisionDojo, we’ve compiled the ultimate exam day checklist to help you feel confident, organized, and ready to score your best.
1. What to Bring
- Admission ticket – Printed from your College Board account
- Valid photo ID – School or government-issued
- Two No. 2 pencils – For multiple-choice section (must be wooden, not mechanical)
- Two black or dark blue pens – For FRQ section (must be non-erasable ink)
- Calculator – Scientific or graphing (check College Board’s approved list)
- Extra batteries – If your calculator uses them
- Water bottle – Clear and label-free
- Small snack – For break time (granola bar, banana, etc.)
2. What NOT to Bring
- Electronic devices – Phones, smartwatches, tablets
- Scratch paper – Not allowed; you’ll use the test booklet margins
- Books or notes – No reference material permitted
- Headphones or earbuds – Music not allowed during the test
- Highlighters – Writing tools are limited to pencils and pens
3. Morning of the Exam
- Eat a balanced breakfast (protein + carbs)
- Double-check you packed your essentials the night before
- Wear comfortable layers—testing rooms can be unpredictable
- Arrive 30 minutes early to avoid last-minute stress
4. Mental Prep Checklist
- Do one or two warm-up questions—don’t cram new topics
- Take deep breaths to calm nerves before starting
- Remember timing strategy:
- Section I (Multiple-Choice): ~90 seconds per question
- Section II (FRQs): Budget more time for long-response questions
5. During the Exam
- Multiple-Choice: Skip and return to tough questions later
- FRQs:
- Underline key terms in the question
- Use bullet points for clarity
- Always attempt an answer—even partial points help
- Keep an eye on the clock but avoid obsessively checking
6. After the Exam
- Avoid overanalyzing answers with friends—it can spike anxiety
- Take a break—you’ve earned it
- Log into your College Board account later in July to view your scores
Final Words from RevisionDojo
A perfect exam day isn’t about luck—it’s about planning ahead. Following this checklist will help you feel in control, so you can focus on showing the AP readers how much you know. Good prep, calm energy, and steady focus are the winning formula.
