The AP Biology Exam is one of the most rigorous and rewarding AP courses offered by the College Board. Scoring well can earn you college credit, boost your GPA, and demonstrate your ability to handle challenging coursework.
But the AP Bio test isn’t just about memorizing facts—it requires deep understanding, application of concepts, and scientific reasoning. In this ultimate guide from RevisionDojo, we’ll break down:
- The AP Biology Exam format
- All eight units and topics tested
- The skills you’ll need to develop
- Study tips that work (and save time)
- A last-minute prep checklist
- FAQs about the exam
AP Biology Exam Overview
The AP Biology Exam is 3 hours long and has two equally weighted sections: Multiple Choice (MCQs) and Free Response (FRQs).
Section I – Multiple Choice
- 60 questions in 90 minutes
- Worth 50% of your score
- Question types:
- Standalone MCQs
- Data interpretation (graphs, tables, experiments)
- Multiple-select (choose 2 correct answers)
Section II – Free Response
- 6 questions in 90 minutes
- 2 Long FRQs (~10 points each)
- 4 Short FRQs (~4 points each)
- Worth 50% of your score
- Requires written explanations, experimental design, and data analysis
Pro Tip: The FRQ section often requires interpreting novel scenarios—meaning the answer isn’t directly from your notes, but from applying your knowledge.
AP Biology Units & Topics
The AP Biology course is organized into 8 units. Here’s what each covers:
Unit 1: Chemistry of Life
- Properties of water
- Elements of life (CHONPS)
- Macromolecules (proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, nucleic acids)
- Structure and function relationships
- pH, buffers, and biological reactions
Unit 2: Cell Structure and Function
- Cell organelles and their roles
- Plasma membrane structure & function
- Transport mechanisms (diffusion, osmosis, active transport)
- Surface area-to-volume ratio and its significance
Unit 3: Cellular Energetics
- Enzyme structure and function
- ATP and energy coupling
- Photosynthesis and cellular respiration
- Environmental impacts on enzyme activity
Unit 4: Cell Communication and Cell Cycle
- Signal transduction pathways
- Feedback mechanisms
- Cell cycle regulation
- Mitosis vs. meiosis basics
Unit 5: Heredity
- Mendelian genetics and probability
- Meiosis and genetic variation
- Inheritance patterns (autosomal, sex-linked, polygenic)
Unit 6: Gene Expression and Regulation
- DNA replication, transcription, and translation
- Regulation of gene expression in prokaryotes and eukaryotes
- Mutations and their effects
Unit 7: Natural Selection
- Darwin’s theory and evidence for evolution
- Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium
- Speciation and phylogenetic trees
Unit 8: Ecology
- Ecosystem interactions
- Energy flow and nutrient cycles
- Population dynamics
- Human impacts on ecosystems
Science Practices Tested
AP Biology isn’t just about content—it also tests science practices:
- Concept Explanation – connecting facts to concepts
- Visual Representations – interpreting diagrams and models
- Question & Method – designing experiments
- Representing & Describing Data – making claims from evidence
- Statistical Tests – Chi-square, standard error, mean, median
Proven Study Tips for AP Biology
1. Use Active Recall
Instead of rereading, quiz yourself using flashcards or practice questions.
2. Focus on Understanding, Not Memorization
Know why processes happen, not just what happens.
3. Practice Data Interpretation
Work with graphs, tables, and experimental setups. These appear on almost every question.
4. Train for FRQs
- Write full answers under timed conditions
- Use claim–evidence–reasoning structure
- Practice with past FRQs from the College Board
5. Build a Study Schedule
- 3 months before: Cover all content in order
- 1 month before: Focus on weak areas and start full practice exams
- 1 week before: Do targeted review and memorize essential formulas
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring data-based questions—they’re half the exam
- Over-memorizing and under-practicing application
- Forgetting units and proper labels on graphs in FRQs
- Not budgeting time during the test
Last-Minute AP Biology Checklist
- ✅ Review major processes (photosynthesis, respiration, cell cycle)
- ✅ Memorize essential formulas (Chi-square, water potential)
- ✅ Practice at least one FRQ daily
- ✅ Skim all units for quick refreshers
- ✅ Sleep well before exam day
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How hard is the AP Biology Exam?
It’s challenging, but students who prepare with active practice and understand the science practices score well.
2. How many FRQs are on the exam?
Six total—two long and four short.
3. What calculators are allowed?
A four-function, scientific, or graphing calculator is permitted for both sections.
4. What’s a good AP Biology score for college credit?
Most colleges give credit for a 4 or 5, but some accept a 3.
Call to Action
The AP Biology Exam rewards smart preparation, not just hard work. With the right strategies, you can master the format, tackle challenging topics, and walk in confident on test day.
👉 Use RevisionDojo’s AP Biology resources for detailed unit reviews, FRQ practice, and personalized feedback to push your score higher. Your 5 starts here.
