Introduction
The AP U.S. History (APUSH) Exam is one of the most rigorous AP tests, demanding a strong command of historical facts and the ability to think critically like a historian. Success on this exam requires more than just memorization—it means understanding the format, structure, and scoring system.
In this guide, we’ll break down the entire APUSH exam format—including multiple choice questions (MCQs), short-answer questions (SAQs), document-based questions (DBQs), and long essay questions (LEQs)—so you know exactly what to expect. By the end, you’ll see how RevisionDojo can train you to excel on each part.
APUSH Exam Overview
The APUSH Exam is 3 hours and 15 minutes long, divided into two main sections:
- Section I (Part A: Multiple Choice & Part B: SAQs)
- Section II (Part A: DBQ & Part B: LEQ)
Each section tests different skills, but together they assess your ability to recall facts, analyze sources, and construct strong historical arguments.
Section I: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
- Duration: 55 minutes
- Number of Questions: 55
- Weight: 40% of your total exam score
What to Expect
- Questions are grouped into sets with stimulus materials like maps, charts, excerpts, or political cartoons.
- Each set has 2–4 questions testing your ability to interpret sources, identify cause-and-effect, and apply historical knowledge.
Tips for Success
- Don’t just memorize—practice applying context to unfamiliar documents.
- Learn to spot distractors—plausible-sounding but historically inaccurate answers.
Section I: Short-Answer Questions (SAQs)
- Duration: 40 minutes
- Number of Questions: 3 (you must answer all)
- Weight: 20% of your total exam score
What to Expect
- Each SAQ includes a prompt with 3 parts (A, B, C).
- You’ll need to provide concise answers (about 2–4 sentences per part).
- Common tasks: defining historical terms, analyzing sources, or comparing perspectives.
Tips for Success
- Go straight to the point—no fluff.
- Always include specific evidence in your responses.
Section II: Document-Based Question (DBQ)
- Duration: 60 minutes (including a 15-minute reading period)
- Weight: 25% of your total exam score
What to Expect
- You’ll get 7 documents (texts, images, political cartoons, etc.).
- Your task: craft an essay with a clear thesis, integrating the documents with outside evidence.
DBQ Scoring Criteria
- Thesis & Argument Development
- Document Analysis & Use
- Contextualization
- Evidence Beyond Documents
- Synthesis
Tips for Success
- Start with a strong thesis that directly answers the prompt.
- Group documents by theme (economic, political, cultural, etc.).
- Always add outside evidence beyond what’s given.
Section II: Long Essay Question (LEQ)
- Duration: 40 minutes
- Weight: 15% of your total exam score
- Choice: Pick 1 out of 3 prompts
What to Expect
- Prompts are based on broad historical themes (politics, culture, economics, foreign policy).
- No documents are provided—you must rely entirely on your knowledge.
Tips for Success
- Write a clear thesis in the introduction.
- Use specific historical evidence (dates, laws, events).
- Structure your essay with strong topic sentences and analysis.
Scoring Breakdown
- MCQs: 40%
- SAQs: 20%
- DBQ: 25%
- LEQ: 15%
Total: 100%
To earn a 5 on the APUSH exam, you’ll need consistent strength across all four sections.
How RevisionDojo Helps You Master the APUSH Exam Format
Studying for APUSH is overwhelming without the right system. That’s where RevisionDojo comes in:
- MCQ Practice Sets: Simulate real APUSH multiple choice with source-based questions.
- SAQ Workshops: Learn to write concise, evidence-rich short answers.
- DBQ Training: Practice analyzing documents and structuring essays step by step.
- LEQ Drills: Build the skills to craft strong thesis-driven essays without sources.
- Exam Simulations: Full-length timed tests to build confidence.
RevisionDojo is designed around the College Board rubric, ensuring every practice session translates directly to a higher APUSH score.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long is the APUSH exam?
A: The exam lasts 3 hours and 15 minutes.
Q: What’s the hardest section of APUSH?
A: Many students find the DBQ hardest because it requires document analysis and outside evidence.
Q: How do I manage time during the exam?
A: Spend ~1 minute per multiple choice question, 12 minutes per SAQ, 15 minutes planning your DBQ, and pace yourself for the LEQ.
Q: Can I pass APUSH without perfect essays?
A: Yes—strong performance on MCQs and SAQs can balance essay weaknesses. But essay skills are crucial for a top score.
Q: What’s the best resource for exam prep?
A: RevisionDojo—it provides MCQs, SAQs, DBQs, and LEQs aligned with the official exam format.
Conclusion
Understanding the APUSH exam format is the first step toward mastering it. From the source-heavy multiple choice to the document-based essay, every section tests different skills.
The key is consistent, exam-style practice—and that’s exactly what RevisionDojo delivers. With targeted drills, full-length simulations, and rubric-based feedback, you’ll be fully prepared to walk into the APUSH exam with confidence and score a 5.
