AP Exam Schedule 2024: Key Dates and What Students Need to Know

For high school students across the United States, the spring means one thing: AP exam season. The Advanced Placement exams are administered each May, allowing students to potentially earn college credit by demonstrating subject mastery through these rigorous tests.

As the 2023-2024 academic year progresses, AP students and their families must mark their calendars and prepare accordingly for the upcoming exam schedule. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll outline all the key dates, registration deadlines, and essential information you need to know about the 2024 AP exams.

AP Exam Dates for 2024

The 2024 AP exam period will span two weeks, beginning on Monday, May 6th, and concluding on Friday, May 17th. During this timeframe, exams will be administered at designated testing centers, typically at high schools or community colleges.

Here’s the full schedule for the 2024 AP exam dates:

Week 1: May 6–10, 2024

• Monday, May 6, 2024
  • 8 a.m.: United States Government and Politics, Art History, Chemistry
  • 12 p.m.: Human Geography, Microeconomics, Seminar, Statistics
• Wednesday, May 8, 2024
  • 8 a.m.: English Literature and Composition, Comparative Government and Politics, Computer Science A
• Thursday, May 9, 2024
  • 8 a.m.: Chinese Language and Culture, Environmental Science, Psychology
• Friday, May 10, 2024
  • 8 a.m.: European History, United States History, Macroeconomics
  • 8 p.m. (ET): Deadline for AP Art and Design students to submit their three portfolio components as final in the AP Digital Portfolio.

Week 2: May 13–17, 2024

• Monday, May 13, 2024
  • 8 a.m.: Calculus AB, Calculus BC, Italian Language and Culture, Precalculus
• Tuesday, May 14, 2024
  • 8 a.m.: English Language and Composition, African American Studies, Physics C: Mechanics, Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism
• Wednesday, May 15, 2024
  • 8 a.m.: French Language and Culture, World History: Modern, Computer Science Principles, Music Theory
• Thursday, May 16, 2024
  • 8 a.m.: Spanish Language and Culture, Biology, Japanese Language and Culture
• Friday, May 17, 2024
  • 8 a.m.: German Language and Culture, Physics 1: Algebra-Based, Latin, Physics 2: Algebra-Based

It’s important to note that if students are taking multiple AP exams on the same date, the morning exams will be administered first, followed by afternoon exams. Exact start times may vary slightly between test centers.

Registration and Fees

Most schools have already opened registration for the 2024 AP exams, with deadlines typically falling in early spring. However, some schools do accept later registrations for an additional late fee. The standard fee for each AP exam in 2024 is $97.

Students qualifying for financial assistance may be eligible for a fee reduction of $33 per exam. Many states also provide subsidies to help defray the costs.  Your school’s AP coordinator can provide more details on qualification requirements and how to access these discounts.

It’s crucial to register for AP exams well in advance, as late registrations incur fees and some testing centers may not be able to accommodate walk-ins. Your school counselor and AP teachers should provide reminders and guidance on registration timelines and procedures.

Exam Preparation

Adequate preparation is key to success on the AP exams. Throughout the school year, students should attend all AP classes, complete all assignments diligently, and actively participate through questioning and discussion. As the exam dates approach, students should:

– Prioritize a consistent schedule for AP exam preparation and stick to it

– Take practice tests to familiarize themselves with the format and pacing  

– Identify strengths and weaknesses by reviewing practice test results

– Focus studies on areas needing improvement through targeted practice

– Get plenty of rest and maintain a balanced lifestyle to avoid burnout

Many schools provide AP exam prep sessions, tutoring resources, or online prep materials. Taking advantage of these offerings can significantly boost your confidence and performance come exam day.

Exam Day Procedures

On AP exam days, students should arrive at the designated testing site before the scheduled start time. You must bring a printed admission ticket, valid school or government-issued photo ID, and approved calculators or supplies if applicable. Seating assignments and other procedures will be communicated by testing proctors.

During each subject exam, students will have a specified amount of time, typically between 2-4 hours depending on the exam. Breaks will be provided, but the exam must be completed within the scheduled testing window for that day.

Electronic devices, study materials, books, and outside resources are prohibited in exam rooms. Any violations of exam policies can result in score cancellation.

Receiving Scores

Scores for the 2024 AP exams will be released in early July for most exams. The College Board will send score reports to the high schools you designated, as well as to the college you plan to attend in the upcoming fall. AP score reports include a scaled score from 1-5, as well as performance indicators to reveal your strengths and weaknesses.

Most US colleges award credit for AP scores of 3 or higher, though policies vary by institution. A score of 3 qualifies as “passing” while scores of 4 or 5 demonstrate higher mastery levels. AP scholars with scores of 3 or above often have opportunities to bypass introductory courses in college or place out of general education requirements.

The 2024 AP exam schedule requires strategic preparation and adherence to key deadlines. By understanding the process and doing your part to prepare, you put yourself in the best position for success on these crucial exams. Consult your AP teachers, school counselors, and the College Board website for any further guidance throughout the year. The investment you make now can pay significant dividends by potentially earning you college credit and advanced standing. Good luck!