How Many AP Biology Papers Are There?

Trying to figure out what the AP Biology exam actually looks like? You're not the only one feeling confused.

Many students stress about exam format because online resources give conflicting information or mix up old exam structures with the current one. When you're trying to plan your revision, not knowing exactly what you're facing on test day can feel pretty overwhelming.

Here's the good news: the AP Biology exam structure is actually straightforward once you understand it. In this guide, we'll break down exactly how many sections (or "papers") make up the exam, what each one involves, how long you'll have, and how it all adds up to your final score.

At Save My Exams, we've helped thousands of students navigate exam formats across different qualifications. We know that understanding the structure is the first step to smart revision and exam success. We have a range of AP Biology revision materials specially designed around the AP biology syllabus. 

Key Takeaways

• The AP Biology exam consists of one exam with two main sections: 

  • Multiple Choice - Section I 

  • Free Response - Section II

• Section I includes 60 multiple-choice questions in 90 minutes (50% of your score)

• Section II includes 6 free-response questions in 90 minutes (50% of your score)

• The total exam lasts 3 hours and both sections are completed on the same day

• Your performance across both sections is converted to the 1-5 AP score scale

AP Biology Exam Structure at a Glance

Let's clear something up straight away: the AP Biology exam (opens in a new tab) isn't split into separate papers like some other qualifications you might have heard about.

Instead, the College Board (opens in a new tab) set out the assessment as a single exam taken in one sitting with two distinct sections. You'll complete both sections on the same test day, with a short break in between.

Think of it like a two-part challenge rather than two separate exams. Both parts matter equally for your final score.

Section I is the multiple-choice section where you'll answer 60 questions. Section II is the free-response section where you'll write longer, more detailed answers to 6 questions.

Both sections test your knowledge across all the units in the AP Biology curriculum. You can't pick and choose which topics appear—everything you've studied is fair game in both sections. 

The exam assesses content from each of the four big ideas for the course: 

1. Evolution 

2. Energetics

3. Information Storage and Transmission

4. Systems Interactions

Section I – Multiple Choice

This first section is designed to test your knowledge efficiently and quickly. This section assesses your ability to use scientific practices, including data analysis, prediction, and justification of claims. 

You'll face 60 multiple-choice questions in 90 minutes, which works out to about 1.5 minutes per question. That might sound tight, but many questions you'll answer much faster, leaving time for the trickier ones. There's no penalty for wrong answers, so you should always make an educated guess even if you're not certain.

The questions cover factual knowledge, but they're not just simple recall. You'll need to analyse data from graphs and tables, interpret experimental designs, and apply biological concepts to new situations.

Some questions are standalone, while others are grouped around a common stimulus, such as a diagram, data set, or short passage. These question sets typically include 4-5 questions based on the same information.

Save My Exams have created multiple-choice questions for every AP Biology topic.

Example of a multiple-choice question:

A scientist observes that a certain bacterial species grows faster at 37°C than at 25°C. Which of the following best explains this observation?

A) The bacteria have more ribosomes at higher temperatures 

B) Enzymes involved in metabolism function more efficiently at 37°C 

C) DNA replication only occurs above 30°C 

D) Cell membranes are more stable at higher temperatures

This type of question tests whether you understand enzyme activity and how temperature affects biological processes, not just whether you've memorised a fact.

Section II – Free Response

The free-response section is where you really show what you understand.

You'll answer 6 questions total in 90 minutes: 

• Question 1: Interpreting and Evaluating Experimental Results (9 pts) 

• Question 2: Interpreting and Evaluating Experimental Results with Graphing (9 pts) 

• Question 3: Scientific Investigation (4 pts) 

• Question 4: Conceptual Analysis (4 pts) 

• Question 5: Analyze Model or Visual Representation of a Biological Concept or Process (4 pts) 

• Question 6: Analyze Data (4 pts)

The long questions typically take about 20-22 minutes each, whilst the short questions take roughly 6 minutes each. You'll need to manage your time carefully to answer everything thoroughly.

These questions test higher-level skills. You might be asked to design an experiment, analyse data and draw conclusions, construct models, or make predictions based on biological principles.

The College Board provide examples of Free Response Questions, and here at Save My Exams we have collated all available past papers with their mark schemes. 

College Board scoring rubrics (opens in a new tab) award points for specific elements in your answer: making a claim, providing evidence, explaining reasoning, and using appropriate scientific language.

Long free-response questions are more complex. They might ask you to analyse an experiment, interpret multiple data sets, and connect concepts across different biology topics.

The key to success in this section is writing clear, structured answers that directly address what's being asked. Examiners aren't looking for essays—they want focused responses with scientific reasoning.

How the AP Biology Exam Is Scored

Understanding how AP scoring (opens in a new tab) works helps you prioritise your revision and exam strategy.

Each section contributes equally to your final score: 

• Section I (multiple choice) is worth 50% 

• Section II (free response) is also worth 50%.

Here's how it works in practice:

For Section I, you earn one point for each correct answer out of 60 possible points. For Section II, each question is worth a specific number of points (long questions typically 8-10 points, short questions typically 4 points), totalling around 40-52 points depending on the exam.

These raw scores from both sections are then combined and converted to the 1-5 AP score scale using a conversion chart. The conversion varies each year based on overall exam performance, but generally:

• 5 = Extremely well qualified

• 4 = Well qualified

• 3 = Qualified

• 2 = Possibly qualified

• 1 = No recommendation

A score of 3 or higher is typically considered "passing" and may earn you university credit, though individual universities set their own policies.

The exact score needed for each AP grade changes yearly, but usually you need roughly 60-70% of total points for a 5, and around 50-60% for a 4.

This scoring system means both sections matter equally. You can't ignore one section and expect to do well overall.

Tips for Preparing for Each Section

Now you know the structure, let's talk strategy for tackling each section effectively.

For Section I (Multiple Choice):

Time management is crucial. Don't spend more than 2 minutes on any single question on your first pass. If you're stuck, mark it and move on.

Use process of elimination. Cross out answers you know are wrong, then carefully evaluate what's left. Often you can narrow it down to two options, significantly improving your chances.

Watch out for words like "most," "least," "always," and "never." These can completely change the meaning of a question. Underline them so you don't miss them.

Practise with real past exam questions from College Board. This helps you recognise common question patterns and get comfortable with the format.

For Section II (Free Response):

Plan before you write. Spend 30 seconds thinking about what the question is asking and what points you need to make. This prevents rambling answers that miss the mark.

Use specific biological terminology. Words like "osmosis," "natural selection," "ATP," and "mitochondria" show you know your stuff. Vague language loses you marks.

Structure your answers clearly. If a question has parts (a), (b), and (c), label your responses. Make it easy for examiners to find your points.

Explain your reasoning. Don't just state facts—show how they connect to the question. Use phrases like "this occurs because," "as a result," or "this demonstrates."

Look at official scoring guidelines (opens in a new tab) after practising questions. This shows you exactly what earners are looking for and where students commonly lose marks.

Include data when asked. If a question refers to a graph or table, reference specific numbers or trends in your answer to support your claims.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the AP Biology Exam One Paper or Two?

The AP Biology exam is one exam with two sections, both completed on the same day.

You'll sit Section I (multiple choice) first, then take a short break, before completing Section II (free response). The whole exam happens in one test session, not across multiple days or separate papers like some international qualifications.

Are Calculators Allowed in AP Biology?

Yes, calculators are allowed throughout the entire AP Biology exam.

According to College Board rules (opens in a new tab), you can use a four-function, scientific, or graphing calculator. You're allowed to bring two calculators if you wish (as a backup).

However, calculators with QWERTY keyboards, tablets, phones, or devices with internet access are not permitted. Make sure your calculator is approved before test day.

What Topics Are Covered in Each Section?

All eight units of the AP Biology curriculum can appear in both the multiple-choice and free-response sections.

The topics include: Chemistry of Life, Cell Structure and Function, Cellular Energetics, Cell Communication and Cell Cycle, Heredity, Gene Expression and Regulation, Natural Selection, and Ecology. Here at Save my Exams we have indepth study guides on each topic. 

College Board (opens in a new tab) emphasises that the exam tests skills and scientific practices, not just content memorisation. You'll need to apply your knowledge, analyse data, and construct explanations across all topics.

No section focuses exclusively on one topic. Questions are distributed across all units, though some topics like evolution, cellular processes, and ecology tend to appear frequently.

How Long Is the AP Biology Exam?

The total exam lasts 3 hours.

• Section I (multiple choice) takes 90 minutes

• Section II (free response) also takes 90 minutes

You'll have a short break between the two sections, but this doesn't count towards your testing time.

Make sure you arrive early on test day and bring everything you need—you'll be there for several hours including check-in time.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the AP Biology exam format is one of the smartest things you can do for your revision.

Now you know there's one exam with two equally important sections, you can plan your study time effectively. Don't neglect either section—they both matter for your final score.

The key to success is practising both question types regularly. Work through multiple-choice questions to improve your speed and accuracy. Write out full answers to free-response questions and compare them to official scoring guidelines.

Familiarise yourself with the types of questions you'll face and what examiners are looking for in your answers. The more comfortable you are with the format, the more confident you'll feel on test day.

Remember, the AP Biology exam isn't designed to trick you. It's testing whether you can think like a scientist—analysing information, applying concepts, and explaining your reasoning clearly.

With solid preparation and an understanding of what's expected, you're setting yourself up for success. Keep practising, stay organised, and you've got this. Our handy article guides you through How to Improve your AP Scores.

For more support with your AP Biology revision, check out our complete AP Biology study guides, practice question banks, and design your own tests bespoke to your needs, all designed specifically for AP students.

References

• AP Biology Exam Information (opens in a new tab) – College Board

• AP Biology Past Exam Questions (opens in a new tab) – College Board

• AP Biology Course and Exam Description (opens in a new tab) – College Board