AAE - Exam Format (Lesson)

Exam Format.

 

The AP European Exam is broken into 2 sections:

  • Section 1 - Multiple Choice and Short Answer
  • Section 2 - Document Based Question & Long Essay Question

 

Each piece has its own requirements and will be discussed in depth in this module. As a reminder, even if you are not planning on taking the AP exam, many of the assignments and tests in your course are structured in this format. Understanding what will be required of you will be extremely  beneficial as you proceed. If you are planning on taking the national exam, knowing the format of the test and what to expect will help you feel more comfortable and allow you to relax and focus on the material during exam day.

 

Here's how it all breaks down.

Pie Chart of Exam Breakdown percentagesThe test is broken into 2 sections.

Section I (60%)

  • Multiple Choice (40%)
  • Short Answer Questions (20%)

Section II (40%)

  • Document Based Question (25%)
  • Long Essay Question (15%)

 

The exam is a little over 3 hours long and given in late spring. The multiple choice section is scored by machine, while the essays are packed up and sent to be read in June. Scores are compiled and sent to you in July. Visit the College Board's AP website to see the specific date for your exam.

 

The Scores.

Each section is scored individually and those individual components are combined to determine your final score (from 1 to 5.) Individually, the multiple choice score is based on a 0-55 scale, short answers based on a 0-3 scale, the DBQ is based on a 0-7 scale and the long essay is based on a 0-6 scale. These individual scores are then combined and translated into a score of 0-5.

A score of 3 overall is considered passing with most colleges only offering credit to those with scores of 4 or 5. Not every college accepts AP scores for credit. You will need to check with your college of choice to see if: 1. They accept the AP scores and 2. What score they require in order for you to receive college credit. Visit the College Board's AP website for Students  get more information and start your research. You can access that website by clicking here. Links to an external site.

Throughout your course, you'll hear several "score" numbers thrown out at you. Typically when a score is given to you it will refer to your specific essay score NOT your overall AP score.

 

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