Schools in the U.S. Returning 150 or More Regularly Scheduled AP Exams

Important Update for 2024 AP Exams: Due to AP Exams being administered later this year, we’re asking schools giving more than 150 exams to return regularly scheduled exam materials in 3 shipments. This page provides a summary of the updates. This information will also be mailed to AP coordinators in early April.

Important: The instructions on this page differ from what’s in Part 2 of the 2023-24 AP Coordinator’s Manual, and previous years’ split shipment instructions, in three main areas:

• Number of return shipments: You’ll return your regularly scheduled AP Exam materials in 3 shipments, not 2.
• Split shipment labels: “Week 1” labels go on Return Shipments 1 and 2.
• Packing lists: Don’t include printed packing lists with your shipments this year. You’ll submit them online only, through AP Registration and Ordering.

Packing and Preparing Cartons

New: Place “Week 1” labels on each carton in return shipments 1 and 2.

For all other details about preparing cartons for shipping, see the “Returning Exam Materials” section in Part 2 of the 2023-24 AP Coordinator’s Manual.

Complete Packing Lists

You must submit your packing lists online through AP Registration and Ordering at the end of week 1 and week 2. This year only, you don’t need to print and include the packing lists with your return exam shipments. We’ll reference the packing lists you submit online when we receive your return shipments.

See the “Returning Exam Materials” section in Part 2 of the 2023-24 AP Coordinator’s Manual for details about completing packing lists.

Important: When completing your packing lists, it’s important to provide an accurate count of the total number of cartons you’re returning. Depending on when you pack and ship your cartons, you’ll indicate the number of cartons from return shipment 2 on either your week 1 or week 2 packing list. 

Three Tips for Success from Fellow AP Coordinators

#1: Don’t schedule yourself to proctor.

“If possible, remove yourself from the proctoring schedule on Thursday, May 9 and Tuesday, May 14. This creates a moment in time to get our exam shipment finalized and on its way. Preferably without an extra-long workday!” – Karen in Texas.

#2: Find and save sturdy boxes.

“With the additional shipment, we might need more boxes. We’ll receive extra envelopes and stickers but not extra boxes. Alert colleagues on campus to be on the lookout for boxes to use. Be sure they are sturdy and strong.” – Marc in New York.

#3: Pack as you go.

“Consider packing boxes after each exam administration or at the end of each day. This reduces the amount of time needed on the actual ship date. Packing is not my favorite part of being an AP coordinator, but I can handle it in short bursts.” – Carrie in Florida.