AP Art History

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About the Exam

The AP Art History Exam will test your understanding of the art historical concepts covered in the course units, as well as your ability to analyze and compare works of art and place them in historical context.

Exam Date

Mon, May 6, 2024

12 PM Local

AP Art History Exam

This is the regularly scheduled date for the AP Art History Exam.

Exam Components

Section 1: Multiple Choice

80 questions 50% of Score

There are two types of multiple-choice questions on the exam:

  • Sets of 2-3 questions, with each set based on color images of works of art.
  • Individual questions, some of which are based on color images of works of art.

The multiple-choice section includes images of works of art both in and beyond the image set.

You’ll be asked to:

  • Analyze visual and contextual elements of works of art and link them to a larger artistic tradition
  • Compare 2 or more works
  • Attribute works of art beyond the image set
  • Analyze art historical interpretations

Section 2: Free Response

6 questions 50% of Score

There are six free-response questions on the exam:

  • Question 1: Long Essay–Comparison will ask you to compare a required work of art and another of your choosing and explain the significance of the similarities and differences between those works, citing evidence to support their claim.
  • Question 2: Long Essay–Visual/Contextual Analysis will ask you to select and identify a work of art and make assertions about it based on evidence.
  • Question 3: Short Essay–Visual Analysis will ask you to describe a work of art beyond the image set and connect it to an artistic tradition, style, or practice.
  • Question 4: Short Essay–Contextual Analysis will ask you to describe contextual influences of a work of art in the image set and explain how context can influence artistic decisions or affect the meaning of a work of art.
  • Question 5: Short Essay–Attribution will ask you to attribute a work of art beyond the image set to a particular artist, culture, or style, and justify your assertions with evidence.
  • Question 6: Short Essay–Continuity and Change will ask you to analyze the relationship between a provided work of art and a related artistic tradition, style, or practice.
  • Questions 1, 3, 4, 5, and 6 will include images of works of art.

Exam Preparation

Credit and Placement

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