AP Exams 2026 – Advanced Placement Guide, Subjects, Dates & Prep Tips

The global hub for AP exam preparation by Hodu Academy
Advanced Placement (AP) exams are college-level tests offered by the College Board in 38+ subjects, accepted by leading universities worldwide for college credit and advanced placement. Scoring high on AP exams can save tuition, boost your college application, and let you dive deeper into your passions.

What are AP Exams?

AP® (Advanced Placement) is a program by the College Board that lets high school students study college-level material and earn college credit by taking rigorous AP exams in May each year. AP courses are recognized by universities in the USA, Canada, the UK, and beyond.

Why take AP exams? They demonstrate your academic strength, let you skip introductory college courses, and can even save you money on tuition!

Full List of AP Subjects (2026)

  • AP Art History
  • AP Biology
  • AP Calculus AB
  • AP Calculus BC
  • AP Chemistry
  • AP Chinese Language & Culture
  • AP Comparative Government & Politics
  • AP Computer Science A
  • AP Computer Science Principles
  • AP English Language & Composition
  • AP English Literature & Composition
  • AP Environmental Science
  • AP European History
  • AP French Language & Culture
  • AP German Language & Culture
  • AP Human Geography
  • AP Italian Language & Culture
  • AP Japanese Language & Culture
  • AP Latin
  • AP Macroeconomics
  • AP Microeconomics
  • AP Music Theory
  • AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based
  • AP Physics 2: Algebra-Based
  • AP Physics C: Electricity & Magnetism
  • AP Physics C: Mechanics
  • AP Psychology
  • AP Research
  • AP Seminar
  • AP Spanish Language & Culture
  • AP Spanish Literature & Culture
  • AP Statistics
  • AP Studio Art: 2-D Design
  • AP Studio Art: 3-D Design
  • AP Studio Art: Drawing
  • AP U.S. Government & Politics
  • AP U.S. History
  • AP World History: Modern
Tip: Not all AP subjects are offered at every school. Check with your counselor for your school’s options.

AP Exam Dates, Fees & Registration (2026)

  • When? AP exams are offered once per year, every May. Register in the fall or early spring through your school or AP Coordinator.
  • Cost: $98 (international schools may pay more). Fee reductions available for eligible students.
  • Format: Exams are usually a mix of multiple choice, short answer, essays, or lab/practical tasks (subject-dependent).
  • How to Register? Most students register via their school’s AP Coordinator. If your school does not offer AP, contact College Board for the nearest authorized test center.
  • Exam Length: 2–3 hours (varies by subject).
  • Scoring: 1 to 5 (see below).
Important: You must plan ahead; registration deadlines are several months before the May exam window.

How are AP Exams Scored? How Does College Credit Work?

  • Scoring: AP exams are scored on a scale from 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest). Scores of 4 or 5 are most likely to earn college credit, but policies vary by university.
  • When Are Scores Released? Early July, on your College Board account.
  • Credit & Placement: Many universities accept AP scores for college credit, advanced standing, or placement into higher-level classes. Always check your chosen college’s AP credit policy.
  • Does AP affect GPA? No, but taking AP classes (where available) shows academic rigor on your transcript.
  • What if my school doesn’t offer AP? You can still self-study and take the exam at a designated center.

Top Tips for AP Exam Preparation

  • Start early—AP exams cover an entire year’s worth of college-level content.
  • Use official College Board AP resources and free past papers for practice.
  • Master the exam format: MCQs, essays, data analysis, and/or practicals.
  • Take full-length practice tests and review your mistakes.
  • Join AP prep groups, or consider AP tutoring/coaching for high-score strategies.
  • Stay organized with a study calendar, especially if taking multiple APs.
Want personalized AP study tips? Ask Hodu Academy’s experts!

FAQs: Advanced Placement (AP) Exams

  • What is Advanced Placement? A College Board program for high school students to take college-level courses and exams, with the potential to earn college credit.
  • How many AP subjects can I take? As many as your school and schedule allow! Most students take 2–5 during high school.
  • Do all colleges accept AP? Most US and many international universities do, but always check their AP credit policy for specific subjects and required scores.
  • Do AP scores affect admissions? Scores are not part of your high school GPA, but taking AP classes and exams shows you’re challenging yourself.
  • How do I register if my school doesn’t offer AP? Contact College Board directly for the nearest authorized test center and registration process.
  • Can I self-study for AP exams? Yes! Many students prepare on their own, especially for subjects not offered by their school.
  • How do I prepare for AP exams? Use official course guides, join study groups, take practice exams, and seek help for challenging topics.
  • What if I don’t score well? Don’t worry! You can choose not to send your AP score to colleges, or retake the exam next year.
Bookmark Hodu Academy’s AP Hub for subject guides, exam strategies, and personalized support!
Last modified: Monday, 7 July 2025, 7:45 PM