College Board has announced that due to COVID-19, they are changing the way AP tests will be administered for the 2019-20 school year.  Instead of in-school exams, they will be offering students the opportunity to take the test remotely.  More specific details will be announced by April 3.

What are the changes?

As of now, College Board is making the following changes to the exams:

• There will be two different test dates (as yet undetermined) for each AP exam. Students can choose the date that’s better for them.
• They will be online, free-response exams.
• Students will have 45 minutes to complete the exam.
• The tests will focus on the curriculum that most schools completed by early March.

 What does this mean for high school students?

Students will have the option to select one of the two test dates for their exam.  The first will be given in the near future for those students who want to take the test while the information is still fresh in their minds.  The second will be offered later for students that want more time to review the material.

Students will be able to use any device (computer, tablet or smartphone) to take the tests.  No worries if you prefer to write your responses, you’ll still be able to handwrite your responses and submit a photo of your answers.

Will colleges still accept my AP credit for these exams?

It appears so.  According to College Board, “Colleges support this solution and are committed to ensuring that AP students receive the credit they have worked to earn. For decades, colleges have accepted a shortened AP Exam for college credit when groups of students have experienced emergencies.”

The best advice, as always, is to contact the schools directly and ask them what they plan to do.

What resources are available to help me prepare for my exams?

Your teachers are the best resource to ensure you’re prepared.  Stay up to date on your homework, do all the practice questions, and study as if you were taking it in person.

In addition, beginning March 25 College Board is offering free, online review classes.  Click here for the schedule and more information from College Board: https://apstudents.collegeboard.org/coronavirus-updates