The Exam

AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based

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Exam Overview

Exam questions assess the course concepts and skills outlined in the course framework. For more information, download the AP Physics 1 Course and Exam Description (CED).

Encourage your students to visit the AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based student page for exam information.

Exam Date

Fri, May 17, 2024

8 AM Local

AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based Exam

Exam Coverage Update

Colleges agree that Units 8–10 can be removed from AP Physics 1 since they are covered in AP Physics 2; accordingly, Units 8–10 are no longer tested in AP Physics 1. As of 2021, AP Physics 1 Exams focus exclusively on content covered in Units 1-7.

Exam Format

The AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based 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: Multiple Choice 

50 Questions | 1 Hour 30 Minutes | 50% of Exam Score 

Questions are either discrete questions or question sets, in which students are provided with a stimulus or a set of data and a series of related questions. 

  • The section includes 5 individual multi-select questions (2 options are correct). 


Section II: Free Response

5 Questions | 1 Hour 30 Minutes | 50% of Exam Score 

This section contains 5 free-response questions of the following types: 

  • Experimental Design (1 question) 
  • Qualitative/Quantitative Translation (1 question) 
  • Short Answer: Paragraph Argument (1 question) 
  • Short Answer (2 questions) 

AP Calculator Policy

A four-function, scientific, or graphing calculator is allowed on both sections of the exam.

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AP Exams Calculator Policy

Make sure you and your students know which calculators are permitted.

Exam Questions and Scoring Information

2023: Free-Response Questions

Questions

Scoring

Samples and Commentary

Free-Response Questions

Scoring Guidelines

Past Exam Questions and Scoring Information

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AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based Past Exam Questions

View free-response questions and scoring information from past exams.

Score Reporting