May is AP Exams Month

Each May, high school students throughout the nation take Advanced Placement (AP) Exams. These paper-and-pencil exams are the culmination of a student’s academic experience in their respective AP course(s). 

AP courses are among the most rigorous classes available at FWCD because they are designed to match the level of challenge found in a first-year college course. The College Board, the same agency that creates the PSAT/NMSQT and SAT Test, sets the curricular requirements for each AP course and writes the exam. All exam scoring is done by College Board employees, many of whom are high school teachers.

Who takes AP Exams? All FWCD underclassmen are required to take all AP Exams in the courses in which they are enrolled. FWCD seniors may opt out of taking the AP Exam in elective subjects, but AP Exams in English, math and studio art (portfolio) are required. If the student chooses not to take an elective AP Exam, they will be required to take a teacher-generated final exam on the same day the AP Exam is scheduled. 

When are AP Exams administered? The College Board sets the annual AP Exam schedule. The 2024 AP Exams Schedule has been customized for FWCD’s AP Exam offerings. All testing will take place on campus. View the AP Exam Schedule. 

How long does each AP Exam take? On average, each AP Exam lasts three hours and includes a combination of multiple-choice and free-response questions. Students are to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the start of the exam. By the end of April, all exam locations will be posted outside of the College Counseling Office in the Upper School.

I have College Board-approved accommodations. Will I receive my accommodation (e.g., extended time) on my respective test days? Students with College Board-approved accommodations, including extended time, will be accommodated as directed by the College Board. Eligible students need to bring several snacks to consume during testing breaks to sustain their energy.

What should I bring to my AP Exams? AP students will receive information about FWCD’s AP Exam procedures and attendance policy. It is recommended that students bring a snack to eat during breaks.

When will I receive my AP Exam scores? Exam scores will be available in early July. The College Board’s website provides a complete description of the AP score reporting process.

How do colleges use AP scores? Many colleges grant course credit for AP scores. Each college sets its own score performance guidelines. Some schools will accept AP scores for credit in courses that fulfill distribution requirements; others will count credits from AP Exams as elective credits. If a college does not accept AP scores for credit, they will often use them for placement purposes, which can move a student beyond entry-level classes. These credits or higher course placements may allow students to pursue advanced coursework, have a double major, or study abroad more easily.

In late April or early May, and while completing their FWCD College Counseling exit paperwork, seniors will request that their cumulative record of AP Exam scores be released (in early July) to their enrolling college or university.