AP Music Theory
Administering the Exam
Beginning with the 2027 AP Exam administration, AP Music Theory is a hybrid digital AP Exam in Bluebook:
- All multiple-choice and sight-singing responses are submitted automatically through Bluebook.
- Booklets with completed answers for free-response questions are collected and returned for scoring.
Paper exams, answer sheets, free-response booklets, CDs, CD players, the DAC app, and the DAS portal will no longer be used.
Ordering
AP coordinators order AP Music Theory Exams along with all other AP Exams in AP Registration and Ordering. For more information, go to Ordering and Fees.
Equipment Needed
In addition to testing devices with keyboards, students will need:
| Section/Part | Equipment |
|---|---|
| Section I, Part A | Wired headset (for audio stimulus) |
| Section II, Part A (Dictation) | Wired headset (for audio stimulus) |
| Section II, Part B | Speaker built into device or wired external; Microphone built into device or wired external |
Headset Details
Students are required to use wired headsets in the sections/parts listed above. Both school-owned and personal wired headsets are permitted. Wireless headsets are not permitted. Only school-owned headsets are allowed at international test centers. Detailed specifications, including sight-singing audio/microphone requirements, are available on the Headsets for AP World Language and AP Music Theory Exams page.
Resources
Download
AP Coordinator’s Manual, Part 1, 2026-27
This manual provides detailed information about everything AP coordinators need to do from the start of the school year through the November 13 exam ordering deadline.