AP LATINThe Exam

Exam Overview

The AP Latin Exam assesses the ability to read, understand, translate, and analyze Latin poetry and prose. The exam focuses on translating the required Latin readings with an accuracy that reflects precise understanding of Latin and on reading and comprehending new passages at sight. Additionally, students will be expected to describe and analyze Latin grammar, syntax, and style, and to connect the texts they read with the people, practices, and events that shaped the ancient Roman world.

Encourage your students to visit the AP Latin student page for exam information and exam practice.

Exam Format

Section I

Multiple Choice — 50 Questions | 1 Hour | 50% of Exam Score

• Syllabus Reading: Vergil and Caesar (~20 questions)
• Sight Reading: Poetry and Prose (~30 questions)

Section II

Free Response — 5 Questions | 2 Hours (includes a 15-minute reading period) | 50% of Exam Score

• Translation: Vergil (1 passage) and Caesar (1 passage)
• Analytical essay (1 prompt)
• Short answer: Vergil (5 to 7 questions) and Caesar (5 to 7 questions)

Exam Questions and Scoring Information

For free-response questions from prior exams, along with scoring information, check out the tables below.

Be sure to review the Student Performance Q&A. In this invaluable resource, the Chief Reader of the AP Exam compiles feedback from members of the reading leadership to describe how students performed on the FRQs, summarize typical student errors, and address specific concepts and content with which students have struggled the most that year.

Exam Resources