What Is an AP Test?
An AP test is the end-of-year exam for an Advanced Placement course, administered by the College Board. Scoring well can earn you college credit, advanced placement, or both, depending on your university’s policies.
Each AP test is designed to assess the skills and knowledge taught in the AP course, and it closely matches the format and expectations of a corresponding introductory college course.
AP Test Structure and Format
While each AP exam is unique, most follow a two-section format:
Section I – Multiple Choice
- Typically 40–60% of your score
- Tests breadth of knowledge and quick recall
- Usually does not allow calculators (except in certain math and science exams)
Section II – Free Response
- Typically 40–60% of your score
- Includes essays, problem-solving, data analysis, or experimental design
- Requires written explanations and justification of answers
How AP Tests Are Scored
Scoring Breakdown
- Multiple Choice: Scored by computer, with no penalty for wrong answers
- Free Response: Scored by trained AP readers using a rubric
- Both sections are combined into a composite score and scaled to the AP 1–5 range
AP Score Scale
- 5 = Extremely Well Qualified
- 4 = Well Qualified
- 3 = Qualified
- 2 = Possibly Qualified
- 1 = No Recommendation
Why AP Tests Matter
- College Credit: Many universities grant credit for high AP scores
- Advanced Placement: Skip intro-level college courses and take advanced ones sooner
- Admissions Advantage: Shows colleges you’ve taken the most rigorous courses available
- Scholarships: Some scholarships reward high AP performance
AP Test Preparation Strategies
H3: Start Early
- Begin reviewing at least 6–8 weeks before the exam
- Space out practice sessions to improve retention
H3: Use Official AP Practice Materials
- The College Board provides released questions and sample exams
- Mimic real test conditions for the best preparation
H3: Mix Multiple Choice and Free Response Practice
- Don’t focus on just one section — balance is key
H3: Review Weak Areas First
- Use diagnostic tests to identify the topics that need the most attention
Common Mistakes to Avoid
H4: Only Studying Right Before the Exam
- Cramming is less effective than spaced repetition
H4: Ignoring Free Response Practice
- Many students underestimate how hard it is to write within time limits
H4: Overlooking Rubric Requirements
- On essay-based exams, knowing how points are awarded is essential
Popular AP Tests by Subject Area
H3: STEM
- AP Calculus AB / BC
- AP Physics 1 / C
- AP Chemistry
- AP Biology
H3: Social Studies & Humanities
- AP United States History (APUSH)
- AP World History: Modern
- AP Psychology
- AP Human Geography
H3: Language & Arts
- AP English Language and Composition (AP Lang)
- AP English Literature and Composition (AP Lit)
- AP Studio Art
Test Day Tips for AP Exams
- Arrive early with all required materials
- Eat a balanced breakfast to sustain energy
- Manage your time carefully — pace yourself for each section
- Stay calm and remember that partial credit is possible on free response questions
Related RevisionDojo Resources
- APUSH Score Calculator
- AP Lang Exam Guide
- AP World History Score Calculator
- Hardest AP Classes Ranked
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How many AP tests can I take in one year?
A1: There’s no official limit, but most students take between 2–5 in a single year to balance workload and performance.
Q2: Can I take an AP test without taking the AP class?
A2: Yes — it’s called “self-studying” for the AP exam. Many students do this successfully, especially for subjects like AP Psych or AP Human Geography.
Q3: How long are AP tests?
A3: Most last between 2–3 hours, depending on the subject.
Q4: How much do AP tests cost?
A4: The standard exam fee is set by the College Board each year, with fee reductions available for eligible students.
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