How Long Are AP Exams and Can You Retake Them?
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Preparing for Success: A Guide to AP Exams in 2024
04/01/2024•12 minute read
The 2024 Advanced Placement (AP) exams will be administered in schools over two weeks in May, and for high school students, this marks a crucial phase in their academic journey.
By excelling in AP exams, not only can you demonstrate your ability to handle rigorous college-level coursework but you can also gain a competitive edge in the admissions process. These exams are a great way to challenge yourself, explore college-level subjects, display academic rigor to college admissions officers, and earn valuable credits early on.
In this guide, we'll discuss the significance of the 2024 AP exams and equip you with the knowledge and strategies needed for success.
Understanding AP Exams
The AP program is like an academic playground, offering a variety of courses that go beyond the typical high school curriculum. Examples of popular AP courses include:
- AP World History
- AP English Language and Composition
- AP Calculus
- AP Biology
- AP Psychology
Enrolling in AP courses provides an opportunity to explore subjects you're passionate about at a more advanced level. Engaging in AP courses not only enhances your critical thinking skills but also sets you apart when it comes to college admissions.
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The 2024 AP Exam Schedule
The Importance of Early Planning
The first step towards success in AP exams is understanding the schedule. Noting key dates and deadlines, including registration periods and test dates, is vital.
Early preparation is not just a recommendation; it's a necessity. It provides the luxury of time – time for thorough review, ample practice, and addressing any challenges that may arise during the study process.
2024 AP Exam Dates
| Week 1 | Morning 8 a.m. Local Time | Afternoon 12 p.m. Local Time |
|---|---|---|
| Monday, May 6, 2024 | United States Government and Politics | - Art History - Chemistry |
| Tuesday, May 7, 2024 | - Human Geography - Microeconomics | - Seminar - Statistics |
| Wednesday, May 8, 2024 | English Literature and Composition | - Comparative Government and Politics - Computer Science A |
| Thursday, May 9, 2024 | - Chinese Language and Culture - Environmental Science | Psychology |
| Friday, May 10, 2024 | - European History - United States History | - Macroeconomics - Spanish Literature and Culture |
Art and Design: Friday, May 10, 2024 (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. Local Time | Afternoon 12 p.m. Local Time | Afternoon 2 p.m. Local Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday, May 13, 2024 | - Calculus AB - Calculus BC | - Italian Language and Culture - Precalculus | |
| Tuesday, May 14, 2024 | English Language and Composition | - African American Studies - Physics C: Mechanics | Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism |
| Wednesday, May 15, 2024 | - French Language and Culture - World History: Modern | - Computer Science Principles - Music Theory | |
| Thursday, May 16, 2024 | Spanish Language and Culture | - Biology - Japanese Language and Culture | |
| Friday, May 17, 2024 | - German Language and Culture - Physics 1: Algebra-Based | - Latin - Physics 2: Algebra-Based |
Effective Time Management
Navigating the 2024 AP exam schedule requires effective time management. Creating a study plan that allocates time to each subject, with an emphasis on weaker areas, ensures a comprehensive review.
Time management is not just about quantity but quality. Break down study sessions into focused, productive intervals, allowing for better retention of information.
Changes and Updates in AP Exams for 2024
New Courses
In December 2023, the AP Program delivered its revised framework for the AP African American Studies course, which will officially launch in the 2024-25 school year. This course introduces students to the rich history, culture, and literature of African Americans and the larger African diaspora.
Staying Informed and Adapting to Changes
The educational landscape is dynamic, and AP exams evolve to reflect the changing demands of higher education. Being aware of these alterations is crucial for tailoring your preparation strategy. Whether it's adjusting study materials or adopting new study techniques, staying informed is the key to success.
Change, while inevitable, doesn't have to be daunting. Consider this an opportunity to showcase adaptability and resilience - qualities that extend beyond exam halls into future academic and professional pursuits.
Strategies for AP Exam Preparation
A Holistic Approach
Effective preparation for AP exams goes beyond rote memorization. A holistic approach to studying is vital to success, encompassing diverse strategies such as active learning, concept mapping, and collaborative study sessions. The key to successful preparation lies in understanding the material rather than merely memorizing it.
Leveraging AP Classes
AP classes are not just stepping stones to exams; they are invaluable assets in the preparation journey. Engaging actively in class discussions, seeking clarification on challenging topics, and collaborating with peers contribute significantly to mastering the material. Teachers, with their wealth of knowledge and experience, are not just educators but mentors, guiding you through the complexities of the AP curriculum.
Time Management Techniques
With multiple subjects to cover, effective time management becomes acrucial aspect of successful AP exam preparation. Balancing study sessions with breaks, physical activity, and adequate sleep is essential for maintaining focus and retaining information.
Practice Tests
Be sure to make good use of the appropriate study materials available for AP exams. The AP is primarily a self-study course so there is a lot of material available. College Board offers students access to AP courses, practice AP tests, exam information, and mentoring programs on the AP Central section of its website.
Understanding AP Scores and College Credits
Decoding the Scores
While preparing for AP exams is crucial, understanding how the scores are calculated and interpreted is equally important.
For most AP Exams, your score is a weighted combination of your scores on the 2 sections, multiple-choice and free-response. Some AP courses have assessments that include other scored components.
The final score for each AP Exam is reported on a 5-point scale that offers a recommendation about how qualified you are to receive college credit and placement—but each college makes its own decisions about what scores it will grant credit or placement for.
College Credits and Placement
Achieving a high score not only bolsters college applications but can also lead to advanced placement in college courses, providing a head start in the pursuit of a degree. Many colleges and universities differ in how they use AP scores for credit and placement. Understanding the policies of prospective colleges ensures informed decision-making regarding AP exam goals.
Typically, a minimum score of 4 must be earned on the AP exam to earn college credit. Some schools, like Harvard, require a 5 to earn college credit.
Be sure to research each school’s policy in order to understand what you need to score in order to earn college credit.
Dear Former Admissions Officer: Advice on AP Classes and Extracurriculars
Strategic Preparation
Proactive Planning
When it comes to AP exams, start planning early. Early preparation, combined with a proactive mindset, positions you for success.
Seeking guidance from academic advisors or tutors can help prepare you for success on your AP exams. Crimson’s AP tutors are some of the best in the world, helping students lift their scores to the steady 4s and 5s necessary for top college admission. We offer a variety of subjects — many of which may not be offered by your school (many of our students supplement their school AP study with additional subjects from Crimson).
Click here to set up a free consultation with one of our experts.
