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Advanced Placement (AP) exams are standardized tests offered in the United States and Canada by the College Board. It continues to be an essential part of the educational landscape, providing opportunities for academic growth, college preparation, and potential cost savings for students pursuing higher education.
What is Advanced Placement Exam ?
The Advanced Placement (AP) exam program was introduced in the United States in 1955 by the College Board, a nonprofit organization that develops and administers standardized tests for educational purposes. The program was initially designed to address concerns about the lack of academic rigor in high schools and to provide high-achieving students with an opportunity to engage in more challenging coursework.
The AP exams are designed to assess a student's knowledge and skills in various subjects taught at a college level. They offer an opportunity for high school students to earn college credit or advanced standing at universities and colleges. The main goal of the AP program is to offer college-level curricula and assessments to high school students, allowing them to experience the depth and complexity of college courses while still in high school.
The AP courses are typically taught in high schools by experienced and well-qualified teachers, following a college-level curriculum that covers extensive content and emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and deep understanding of the subject matter. Students who take AP courses often experience a more rigorous academic environment, which can better prepare them for college and future career paths.
Here are some key points about AP exams:
1) Subjects:
AP exams cover a wide range of subjects, including mathematics, sciences, languages, social sciences, arts, and humanities. Some popular AP courses include AP Calculus, AP Biology, AP English Language and Composition, AP U.S. History, and AP Psychology, among others.
2) Exam Format:
AP exams are typically two to three hours long and consist of a combination of multiple-choice questions, free-response questions, and in some cases, performance-based tasks (such as in AP Studio Art or AP Music Theory).
3) Scoring:
The scoring for AP exams is on a scale from 1 to 5, with 5 being the highest score. Many colleges and universities in the United States and around the world offer credit or advanced placement to students who earn qualifying scores on AP exams. Different colleges and universities have their own policies regarding AP credit acceptance, with many institutions granting college credit or advanced placement for scores of 3, 4, or 5.
4) AP Courses:
AP exams are usually taken after completing corresponding AP courses in high school. However, it is not a requirement to take the course before sitting for the exam, and some students may self-study for the exams. Check AP exam syllabus.
5) Exam Schedule:
AP exams are typically administered in May each year, and students can register for the exams through their high schools.
Who is Eligible for AP Exam ?
Eligibility for taking Advanced Placement (AP) exams is generally open to any high school student, regardless of their grade level. Students from 9th to 12th grade can participate in AP courses and exams, depending on the availability of AP programs at their schools and their individual academic readiness. The applicant's age at the time of AP registration must be under 21. To the testing location, candidates must bring their original, valid passports.
Here are some key points to consider regarding eligibility for AP exams:
1) No Prerequisites:
There are no strict prerequisites for taking AP exams. However, since AP courses are generally more challenging and rigorous than standard high school courses, students are encouraged to have a strong academic background in the subject area or related coursework before enrolling in an AP class.
2) Enrollment in AP Courses:
In many schools, students who wish to take an AP exam must first enroll in the corresponding AP course offered by the school. This is because AP courses are designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed on the AP exams.
3) Self-Study Option:
In some cases, students who are unable to take an AP course at their school or wish to pursue additional AP subjects may choose to self-study for the AP exams. This involves independent preparation using study materials and resources available for each AP subject.
4) Availability:
The availability of AP courses and exams can vary from school to school. Some schools may offer a wide range of AP courses, while others might have a more limited selection.
5) International Students:
AP exams are not limited to students in the United States and Canada. They are also available to international students attending schools outside these countries. International students can find exam centers and register for AP exams through the College Board's international program.
How Long are AP Exams ?
The length of Advanced Placement (AP) exams can vary depending on the subject. In general, most AP exams are between 2 to 3 hours in duration. The specific time breakdown for each AP exam may differ, but here is a general overview:
1) Multiple-Choice Section:
The multiple-choice section of an AP exam usually makes up the first part of the test. This section contains a set of questions with multiple answer choices, and students are required to mark their answers on a separate answer sheet. The number of multiple-choice questions can vary by subject, but this section generally takes around 1 to 1.5 hours to complete.
2) Free-Response Section:
The second part of most AP exams includes free-response questions. These questions may require students to write essays, solve problems, analyze data, or demonstrate their knowledge in other ways. The free-response section typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours to complete, depending on the number and complexity of the questions.
3) Performance Tasks (if applicable):
Some AP exams, such as AP Studio Art and AP Music Theory, include performance-based tasks that require students to demonstrate their skills in artistic or musical creation. The time allocated for these tasks may vary depending on the specific requirements of the exam.
How to Register for AP Exams ?
Students usually register for AP exams through their high schools. The registration process typically takes place in the first few months of the school year. To register for AP exams, follow these steps:
1) Contact Your School:
Speak with your school's AP coordinator or guidance counselor to express your interest in taking AP exams and inquire about the registration process.
2) Choose Your Exams:
Decide which AP exams you wish to take based on your interests, academic strengths, and college or career goals.
3) Register Online:
Your school's AP coordinator will guide you through the online registration process on the College Board's AP registration website. They will provide you with a unique join code and instructions.
4) Create or Access Your College Board Account:
If you don't already have one, you'll need to create a College Board account to register for AP exams. If you have an existing account, log in using your credentials.
5) Enter Join Code:
Once logged in, enter the join code provided by your AP coordinator to access your school's AP exam registration page.
6) Select Exams and Submit Payment:
Choose the specific AP exams you want to take and submit the required exam fees. Fee reductions may be available for students with financial need.
7) Review and Confirm:
Double-check your registration details to ensure accuracy, and then submit your registration.
8) Print Confirmation:
After registering, print the confirmation page for your records. This serves as proof of your exam registration.
9) Attend Pre-Administration Sessions (if applicable):
Some schools may require students to attend pre-administration sessions to complete necessary paperwork, such as labeling answer sheets, before exam day.
10) Take the Exams:
On the designated exam days, arrive at the testing location on time, bringing required materials (e.g., identification, pencils, calculators) and your printed exam confirmation.
AP Exam Registration Deadline
For exams to be administered in May 2025, AP candidates need register early by mid-November 2024. To sign up for the exam, you must join your class section online. The AP coordinator at your school will order your exam supplies and gather all fees. The registration date for exams is in the fall, though individual school deadlines may differ.
Advanced Placement Exam Fee
|
AP Exam |
Feet |
|
Regular AP Exam fee |
$ 99 |
|
AP Capstone (AP Seminar and AP
Research |
$ 129 |
|
Late fee |
$ 40 |
|
Late Testing fee |
$ 40 |
The fee for each Advanced Placement (AP) exam in the United States is approximately $99. However, fees can vary slightly from year to year and may be subject to change.
For international students taking AP exams outside the United States, the fees may differ based on the country and region. International students should also refer to the College Board's international program website for specific fee details applicable to their location.
AP Exam Fee Reductions
The College Board offers fee reductions for eligible students with demonstrated financial need. Schools can provide information on how to apply for fee reductions, and students should reach out to their AP coordinators to inquire about this option. Fee reductions can significantly reduce the cost of taking AP exams, making them more accessible to students facing financial constraints.
Advanced Placement Exam Dates 2025
The two weeks of May 2025 that the AP Exams will be administered in schools are May 5–9 and May 12–16.
|
Week 1 |
Morning 8 a.m. |
Afternoon 12
p.m. |
|
Monday, May 5, 2025 |
Biology Latin |
European History Microeconomics |
|
Tuesday, May 6, 2025 |
Chemistry Human Geography |
United States Government and Politics |
|
Wednesday, May 7, 2025 |
English Literature and Composition |
Comparative Government and Politics Computer Science
A |
|
Thursday, May 8, 2025 |
African American Studies Statistics |
Japanese Language and Culture World History: Modern |
|
Friday, May 9, 2025 |
Italian Language and Culture United States History |
Chinese Language and Culture Macroeconomics |
|
Art and Design: Friday, May 9, 2025 (8 p.m. ET), is the deadline for AP Art and Design students to submit their three portfolio components as final in the AP Digital Portfolio. |
||
|
Week 2 |
Morning 8 a.m. |
Afternoon 12 p.m. |
|
Monday, |
Calculus AB Calculus BC |
Music Theory Seminar |
|
Tuesday, |
French Language and Culture Precalculus |
Environmental Science Physics 2:
Algebra-Based |
|
Wednesday, |
English Language and Composition German Language
and Culture |
Physics C: Mechanics |
|
Thursday, |
Art History Spanish Language
and Culture |
Computer Science Principles Physics C:
Electricity and Magnetism |
|
Friday, |
Physics 1: Algebra-Based Spanish
Literature and Culture |
Psychology |
AP Exam Late-Testing Dates 2025
If students are unable to test within the first two weeks of May, late testing dates are offered.
|
|
Morning 8 a.m. |
Afternoon 12 p.m. |
|
Monday, |
Comparative Government and Politics European History World History:
Modern |
English Literature and Composition Human
Geography Latin |
|
Tuesday, |
Japanese Language and Culture United States
Government and Politics |
African American Studies United States
History |
|
Wednesday, |
Computer Science A Microeconomics Statistics
|
Biology Chemistry French Language
and Culture Macroeconomics |
|
Thursday, |
Chinese Language and Culture English Language
and Composition Music Theory Physics C:
Electricity and Magnetism Precalculus |
Art History Calculus AB Calculus BC Spanish
Literature and Culture Physics C:
Mechanics |
|
Friday, |
Environmental Science Italian Language
and Culture Physics 1:
Algebra-Based Seminar Spanish Language
and Culture |
Computer Science Principles German Language
and Culture Physics 2:
Algebra-Based Psychology |
Frequently Asked Questions
When do AP exam scores come out?
AP exam scores are typically released in early July.
What is the AP exam used for?
The AP (Advanced Placement) exam is used to assess high school students' mastery of college-level subjects and their potential for earning college credit or advanced placement at universities.
What is the purpose of AP exams?
The main purpose of AP exams is to provide high school students with the opportunity to earn college credit or advanced standing at universities and colleges. If a student performs well on an AP exam, they may be able to skip introductory college courses in the corresponding subject and proceed to more advanced coursework.
Do I need to take an AP course to take the AP exam?
While it is not a strict requirement, taking an AP course is highly recommended as it provides the necessary preparation for the corresponding AP exam. Many students find that the content and rigor of AP courses help them perform better on the exams.
What is the benefits of AP exam?
The AP (Advanced Placement) exam provides several benefits, including the opportunity for high school students to earn college credit and placement, which can save time and money on college education. Additionally, taking AP exams can demonstrate a student's academic rigor and dedication, enhancing their college applications and potentially increasing their chances of admission to selective institutions.
Can I take AP exams if I'm an international student?
Yes, AP exams are available to international students. Students outside the United States and Canada can find exam centers and register for AP exams through the College Board's international program.
What happens if I perform poorly on an AP exam?
If you receive a low score on an AP exam, it typically does not affect your high school grades. However, it may impact your ability to earn college credit or advanced placement. You may have the option to retake the exam in subsequent years if you wish to improve your score.
Can I cancel my AP exam score?
Yes, you can cancel your AP exam score, but you must make this request through your AP coordinator. Keep in mind that canceled scores will not be reported to colleges, universities, or scholarship programs.
How many AP exams should I take?
The number of AP exams you take depends on your academic interests, abilities, and future goals. Some students take several AP exams, while others focus on a select few. It's essential to strike a balance between academic rigor and managing your workload effectively.