Exam Overview
The AP Computer Science Principles Exam assesses student understanding of the computational thinking practices and learning objectives outlined in the course framework. The AP Exam consists of the Create performance task and an end-of-course AP Exam. For more information, download the AP Computer Science Principles Course and Exam Description.
Encourage your students to visit the AP Computer Science Principles student page for exam information.
Assessment Dates
Recommended Webinars
Watch Recorded Webinar: Evaluating the Create PT Like an AP Reader
To gain additional skills and knowledge on how to read and score AP CSP student work like an AP reader, we invite you to watch the recorded webinar.
Student Webinar: Tips for Completing the Create Performance Task
Get students to watch the recorded webinar for tips on planning and completing the Create performance task. We will also review common mistakes students make.
Teacher Webinars
Watch webinar recordings on Create performance task updates, digital portfolio updates, and course and exam updates.
Create Performance Task Walk-Through
Watch the recording of the Create Performance Task Walk-Through webinar, for guidance on task directions, task guidelines, and the submission process.
Exam Format
The AP Computer Science Principles end-of-course exam has consistent question types, weighting, and scoring guidelines every year, so you and your students know what to expect on exam day.
Section I: End-of-Course Multiple-Choice Exam
70 Multiple-Choice Questions | 120 Minutes | 70% of Score | 4 answer options
- 57 single-select multiple-choice
- 5 single-select with reading passage about a computing innovation
- 8 multiple-select multiple-choice: select 2 answers
Section II: Create Performance Task
30% of Score
Students will develop a computer program of their choice. Students need at least 12 hours of in-class time to complete.