AP Exam Duration—How Long Are They?

I'm planning on taking a few AP exams for the first time next year, and I just wanted to know, how long do AP exams usually last? Are there differences in length between different subjects or are they all the same?

AP exams typically last around 3 hours, but the exact duration can vary depending on the specific subject. The exams consist of multiple-choice questions and free-response questions, which include essays, problem-solving, document-based questions, or short answers. Here's a general breakdown of the structure and length of a few common AP exams:

1. AP English Literature and Composition: The multiple-choice section lasts 60 minutes and contains 55 questions, while the free-response section lasts 2 hours and contains 3 questions.

2. AP Calculus AB/BC: The multiple-choice section is 105 minutes long, split into two parts: Part A (30 questions in 60 minutes, no calculator) and Part B (15 questions in 45 minutes, calculator permitted). The free-response section lasts 90 minutes, with 6 questions (2 long-answer and 4 short-answer questions).

3. AP United States History: The multiple-choice section lasts 55 minutes and has 55 questions, while the free-response section lasts 1 hour and 40 minutes. The free-response section includes 4 questions, consisting of 2 short-answer, 1 document-based, and 1 long-essay question.

4. AP Biology: The multiple-choice section lasts 90 minutes, with 60 questions. The free-response section is also 90 minutes and contains 6 questions, divided into long and short free-response questions.

These examples give you an idea of the length and structure of various AP exams, but it's essential to check the College Board website for specific information on the exams you plan to take. When preparing for AP exams, make sure you allocate enough time for both the multiple-choice and free-response portions, and practice using the same time constraints to build your test-taking skills and stamina.