What are the Advanced Placement exams and why are they important?
AP® (Advanced Placement) Tests are college–level exams on subjects administered in May upon the completion of an AP course taken at a student's high school. At many colleges and universities, a 4 or a 5 score will earn the student credit for college courses. In some instances, this can mean a lower college tuition bill overall. For international students, APs are increasingly used to prove the rigor of their curriculum. There are currently over 30 AP test options, though almost no high schools offer classes in every subject, and those in other curricula will have to choose carefully. APs are only offered in May, so if you wish to take a particular subject you will have to plan ahead.
What specifically do the APs test?
Similar to the SAT Subject Tests, there are multiple AP tests that cover a panoply of subjects. There are over 30 AP test options, from Biology to Psychology to Statistics. Want to know the full list? Visit College Board’s AP page.
How are the AP Tests scored?
AP Exams are scored on a scale of 1–5, with 5 being the highest. The criteria differ widely, depending on the subject at hand. Some exams are mostly multiple-choice, while some exams depend heavily on essays.
Are my scores good enough to earn me credit?
First, you must understand that each school is different. Some schools won't accept credit unless you score a 5, and other schools won't accept them at all. If you are taking the APs to bolster the rigor of your curriculum, it may not matter. Be sure to consult with your schools to understand how they interpret AP scores.
How do I register for AP Test?
The College Board administers the AP tests. However, not all AP tests are offered at every school. If your school doesn't have an AP Coordinator, you must call AP Services no later than March 1 to get the contact information of your closest AP Coordinator. International students will more often than not have to go this route. You can find the number for AP services on the College Board website. You can contact us if you need assistance.
How can I prepare for AP Test?
We can help. We have prep solutions for every need and for every student.
AP is a trademark registered and owned by the College Board, which is not affi liated with, and does not endorse, this product.
Taking AP courses shows your academic vigor and ability to tackle demanding material. On top of that, high scores on AP exams may earn you college credit.
AP Quick Facts
Frequency |
twice/year in May |
Number of APs |
33 |
Cost |
$87 per test |
Max. Score |
5 |
What are the APs and why are they important?
AP ® (Advanced Placement) Tests are college-level exams on specific subjects administered in May upon the completion of an AP course taken at a student's high school. At many colleges and universities, a high enough score will earn the student college credit. In some instances can mean an overall lower college tuition bill. There are currently over 30 AP test options, though few high schools offer classes in every subject.
AP tests are only offered in May, so if you're going to take them, you need to plan ahead.
What specifically do the APs test?
A lot. Similar to the SAT Subject Tests, there are multiple different AP tests that cover a range of subjects. There are over 30 AP test options, ranging from Biology to European History to Music History. Want to know the full list? We're glad you asked. See the list .
How are the APs scored?
AP Exams are scored on a scale of 1–5. While every college is different, most schools won't accept AP scores for credit unless you score at least a 4.
How do I know if my score is good enough to earn college credit?
First, know that every school is different. Some won't accept credit unless you score a 5. Some won't accept them at all. Be sure to check with your top schools to understand how they handle AP scores.
How do I register?
The APs are administered but the College Board, which also administers the SAT. However, not all AP tests are offered at every school. If you have an AP Coordinator at your school, talk to them directly about registration. If your school doesn't have an AP Coordinator, you need to call AP Services no later than March 1 to get the contact information of your closest AP Coordinator. You can find the number for AP services on the College Board website.
How can I prepare?
We can help. We have prep solutions for every student and every budget.
AP Tests
Art History
Biology
Calculus AB
Calculus BC
Chemistry
Chinese Language and Culture
Computer Science A
Macroeconomics
Microeconomics
English Language
English Literature
Environmental Science
French Language
European History
German Language
Comp Government & Politics
U.S. Government & Politics
Human Geography
Japanese Language and Culture
Latin: Vergil
Music Theory
Physics B
Physics C
Psychology
Spanish Language
Spanish Literature
Statistics
Studio Art
U.S. History
World History
AP is a trademark registered and owned by the College Board, which is not affi liated with, and does not endorse, this product.
Attending a Princeton Review ME AP free event is a great way for you to see our teachers in action and get a head start on success in college admissions.
Strategy Sessions for the AP Exams
Our Strategy Sessions offer you a general overview of the AP exam and the role it plays in college admissions. You'll find out about the AP Tests, learn test-taking strategies, and receive tools for researching colleges and financial aid.
AP Exams Free Practice Test
This full-length practice AP is given under simulated testing conditions. You'll learn about the endurance and skill needed to earn a strong score on the AP tests. And you'll get a personalized score report from us.
Meet the Tutors
This intimate event is a great opportunity to both learn the details of our programs and to experience, first-hand, how these tutors' dynamic personalities and specialized knowledge help their students to meet and surpass their test scoring goals.
How will you score?
Find out by taking a full-length practice test given under the same testing conditions as the actual exams. You'll learn about the endurance and skill needed to score high on the AP, and you'll get a personalized score report that shows your strengths and weaknesses.
AP is a trademark registered and owned by the College Board, which is not affi liated with, and does not endorse, this product.
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