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AP®

The Exam

Ready to test your knowledge of Computer Science -- and gain some college credit in the process? Sign up for the AP Computer Science A Exam. The test's multiple-choice and free-response questions give you the chance to demonstrate your ability to design, write, analyze, and document programs and subprograms.

About the Exam

During the three hour exam, you won't be tested on minor points of syntax. All exam code is consistent with the AP Java subset. Please answer all questions involving code in Java. On both the multiple-choice and free-response sections, the exam includes a quick reference (.pdf/219KB) to both the case study and the AP Computer Science A subset classes.

Section I: Multiple-Choice

You'll have one hour and 15 minutes for the 40 question multiple-choice section. Along with topics from the course outline, the multiple-choice section includes at least five questions based on the AP GridWorld Case Study.

Total scores on the multiple-choice section are based on the number of questions answered correctly. Points are not deducted for incorrect answers and no points are awarded for unanswered questions.

Section II: Free-Response

The free-response section contains 4 questions to be completed in 1 hour and 45 minutes. This section requires you to demonstrate the ability to solve problems involving more extended reasoning. Along with topics from the course outline, the free-response section includes one question based on the AP GridWorld Case Study.

Scoring the Exam

The multiple-choice and free-response sections are each worth half of your final score. Please remember: Because the exam is designed to cover all of the subject matter in Computer Science A, you're not expected to answer all of the multiple-choice questions and free-response questions correctly to earn a passing grade.