How Long Are AP Exams?: Breakdown By Subject

If you’ve already started preparing for your AP exams, you understand how important timing is. Your next question may be How long do AP exams take?  

It is important to know whether you are taking one exam or juggling several of them. Knowing how long each one takes will help you plan study sessions and test-day strategies better. 

In this article, we’ll break down the average length of AP exams, including a subject-by-subject chart. We’ll also share some time management tips to help you use your time wisely during the test. 

How Long Do AP Exams Last On Average?

Most AP exams take between 2 and 3 hours to complete, depending on the subject. Each exam follows a unique format, which may include a combination of free-response questions, multiple-choice questions, and, in some cases, performance or portfolio-based tasks. 

Exams are usually divided into two main sections:

• Multiple-choice section: This is usually the first section and takes between 45 and 90 minutes, depending on the subject.

• Free-response section: This section takes from 85 to 120 minutes, and can involve essays and problem-solving exercises.

You’ll have a 10-15 minute break between these two testing sessions. Some exams, such as those for languages or studio art, may include extra components or portfolio submissions instead of a traditional written test.

Students with approved accommodations, including extended testing time, may have 50% or 100% more time on specific sections, depending on their circumstances. 

How Long Do AP Arts Exams Last?

How Long Do AP English Exams Last?

How Long Do AP History and Social Sciences Exams Last?

How Long Do AP Math and Computer Science Exams Last?

How Long Do AP Sciences Exams Last?

How Long Do AP World Languages and Cultures Exams Last?

How Long Do AP Capstone Exams Last?

Time Management Strategies for AP Exams

Managing your time during the exam is just as important as studying before it. Here is a list of some time management strategies to help you during your tests.

1. Know the format in advance

Before exam day, study the format of the AP test you’ll be taking. Learn how many sections it has, how much time you will have to complete each section, and whether any of the sections have a break scheduled. 

2. Practice with a timer

You can simulate testing conditions at home by using past papers and a stopwatch. Train yourself to work within the specific time constraints for each section. This is particularly important for essay and free-response sections.

3. Don’t spend too long on any one question

If you feel a question is taking you too long to answer, move on and come back to it later. Every question counts; don’t lose any time over one tougher question. 

4. Use reading time wisely

Some exams will provide a 10-minute reading or planning period. Use this time to outline your response instead of diving right in.

5. Keep an eye on the clock

You can use your wristwatch or the classroom clock to pace yourself throughout the exam. Managing test time will help prevent you from running out of time during longer responses.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Longest AP Exam?

The longest AP exams are 3 hours and 15 minutes in length. This includes AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, AP Chemistry, AP English Language and Composition, AP European History, AP US History, and AP World History. These tests have several sections with varying time restrictions, and sometimes include both multiple-choice and free-response parts.

Can I Get Extra Time For My AP Exam?

Students who have documented disabilities may be eligible for extra time on their AP exams. Usually, it is about 50% to 100% additional time per section. To get helpful accommodations, students apply through the College Board’s Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD) and receive official approval.

Can I Leave My AP Exam Early?

Now, you cannot leave an AP exam early, even if you finish ahead of time. You will be required to stay seated and quiet until the entire designated time has passed. You will need to be officially dismissed by the test proctor. This policy is in place to avoid disturbing other test-takers and to help maintain exam security.

Final Thoughts

AP exams are rigorous assessments that typically last between 2 and 3 hours. Some can last as long as 3 hours and 15 minutes, depending on the subject. Knowing the timing structure of your AP exams will help you prepare effectively and can help improve your performance on the test. Using time management strategies and becoming familiar with the test format helps you approach exam day with confidence. 

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References

AP Exams Timing and Structure

AP Exam Accommodations 

How to Request Accommodations