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What To Know About AP Exams

2026 AP Exam Dates

The 2026 AP Exams will be administered over two weeks in May: May 4–8 and May 11–15.
You can find the full schedule HERE.

 

AP Exams are the culmination of a year’s hard work and deep exploration in each AP course. These exams not only provide students with an opportunity to showcase their knowledge but also offer the chance to earn college credit and stand out in college admissions. Each AP Exam is designed to test students' understanding through a mix of multiple-choice and free-response questions, requiring both critical thinking and subject mastery.

To prepare, students will need to build strong study habits, stay engaged with course materials, and make use of the resources and support available from teachers and peers. From knowing the exam schedules to understanding scoring methods and credit policies, being informed is the key to approaching AP Exams with confidence.

AP Exam Scores

The AP exams are given every year in May. Scores are released in July. They range from 1 (no recommendation) to 5 (extremely qualified). Each college determines the scores to be accepted for credit, and most will consider a score of at least 3. This table shows the recommendation that each AP score offers about how qualified you are to receive college credit and placement if you earn that score. It also shows the equivalent college course grade for each score.