AP Testing Experience

Hey everyone, so it's my first time taking AP exams, and I'm sorta freaking out. Can anyone who's taken them before share what to expect on testing day?

Certainly, taking AP exams can feel nerve-racking, especially if it's your first time. However, getting a sense of what the day will look like might help to reduce your anxiety.

Typically, you can expect to arrive about 15 to 30 minutes early to the exam site. This is to allow for any last-minute check-ins or seating arrangements. You would be seated at a desk or table, often assigned beforehand, with your student ID and needed materials – which for most AP exams includes number 2 pencils and a calculator for some of the science and math exams.

Once the exam begins, the proctor will walk you through the exam instructions and procedures. Each exam usually begins with a multiple-choice section followed by a free-response section. Keep in mind there will be a 10-minute break in between the two sections to provide students a quick respite.

The total exam time will depend on the specific exam you are taking but generally ranges from 2 hours to 3 hours. Remember this time includes the initial instructions and breaks. Be aware that questions are designed to be rigorous and challenging, in line with the level of a typical introductory college course in the subject.

One strategy that many students say has helped is to skim the questions briefly before beginning to answer them. This way, you might ponder them subconsciously while you're working on other questions. Also, time management is key. Keep an eye on the time but try not to stress if you're a little behind — you can speed up as needed, and leaving a question blank or incorrect both yield the same score: zero.

After the exam, you will be allowed to leave the test center. Some students report feeling a sense of relief after they get the first exam over with, as they then have a better sense of what to expect for future AP exams.

Lastly, remember that while AP exams earn potential college credit, they're not the be-all and end-all. If you don't feel great about one, it's not the end of the world. You can still demonstrate mastery in those subjects in other ways, such as through the class grade or subject-oriented extracurriculars. Best of luck!