College Board’s Advanced Placement (AP) exams are standardized tests that allow high school students to earn college credit and placement. AP tests are typically taken in May, and they last for three hours and 15 minutes. However, the length of an AP test can vary depending on the subject.
AP Test Length by Subject
The following table shows the length of each AP test by subject:
| Subject | Length |
|---|---|
| English Language and Composition | 3 hours, 15 minutes |
| English Literature and Composition | 3 hours, 15 minutes |
| Mathematics Calculus AB | 3 hours, 15 minutes |
| Mathematics Calculus BC | 3 hours, 15 minutes |
| Mathematics Statistics | 3 hours, 15 minutes |
| Biology | 3 hours, 15 minutes |
| Chemistry | 3 hours, 15 minutes |
| Environmental Science | 3 hours, 15 minutes |
| Physics 1: Algebra-Based | 3 hours, 15 minutes |
| Physics 2: Algebra-Based | 3 hours, 15 minutes |
| Physics C: Mechanics | 3 hours, 15 minutes |
| Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism | 3 hours, 15 minutes |
| Computer Science A | 3 hours, 15 minutes |
| Computer Science Principles | 2 hours, 45 minutes |
| World History: Modern | 3 hours, 15 minutes |
| United States History | 3 hours, 15 minutes |
| European History | 3 hours, 15 minutes |
| Government and Politics: Comparative | 3 hours, 15 minutes |
| Government and Politics: United States | 2 hours, 45 minutes |
| Psychology | 2 hours, 45 minutes |
| Art History | 3 hours, 15 minutes |
| Music Theory | 2 hours, 30 minutes |
| Macroeconomics | 2 hours, 45 minutes |
| Microeconomics | 2 hours, 45 minutes |
What to Expect on an AP Test
AP tests are typically divided into two sections: a multiple-choice section and a free-response section. The multiple-choice section is typically timed, and the free-response section is not. The length of each section varies depending on the subject.
How to Prepare for an AP Test
The best way to prepare for an AP test is to take a practice test. Practice tests can help you get familiar with the format of the test and the types of questions that you can expect. You can find practice tests online, or you can purchase them from The College Board.
Scoring AP Tests
AP tests are scored on a scale of 1 to 5. A score of 5 is the highest possible score, and a score of 1 is the lowest possible score. Most colleges and universities will give credit for an AP score of 3 or higher.
Benefits of Taking AP Tests
There are many benefits to taking AP tests. AP tests can help you:
- Earn college credit and placement
- Save money on college tuition
- Get a head start on your college coursework
- Improve your chances of getting into your dream college
Conclusion
AP tests are a great way to get ahead in college. By taking AP tests, you can earn college credit, save money, and improve your chances of getting into your dream college.
