📅 2026 AP Exams at a Glance
Week 1: May 4–8, 2026 | Week 2: May 11–15, 2026 | Late Testing: May 18–22, 2026
The College Board has officially released the 2026 AP Exam schedule, and if you're planning to take any Advanced Placement exams this year, now is the time to start preparing. Whether you're taking one AP exam or juggling multiple tests across both weeks, having the complete schedule at your fingertips is essential for planning your study strategy.
Not sure how many AP exams to take? Check out our guide on how many AP classes you should take to find the right balance for your goals.
I've compiled everything you need to know—exact dates and times for every AP exam, key deadlines, late testing information, and tips to help you navigate exam season like a pro.
📋 What's In This Guide
Week 1: May 4–8, 2026
The first week of AP exams kicks off on Monday, May 4th. Here's the complete day-by-day breakdown:
| Date | 8:00 AM (Morning) | 12:00 PM (Afternoon) |
|---|---|---|
| Monday May 4 |
Biology Latin | European History Microeconomics |
| Tuesday May 5 |
Chemistry Human Geography | US Government and Politics |
| Wednesday May 6 |
English Literature | Comparative Government Physics 1 |
| Thursday May 7 |
Physics 2 World History: Modern | African American Studies Statistics |
| Friday May 8 |
Italian Language US History | Chinese Language Macroeconomics |
Week 2: May 11–15, 2026
The second week brings the remaining AP exams, including popular tests like Calculus, English Language, and Computer Science:
| Date | 8:00 AM (Morning) | 12:00 PM (Afternoon) |
|---|---|---|
| Monday May 11 |
Calculus AB Calculus BC | Music Theory Seminar |
| Tuesday May 12 |
French Language Precalculus | Japanese Language Psychology |
| Wednesday May 13 |
English Language German Language | Physics C: Mechanics Spanish Literature |
| Thursday May 14 |
Art History Spanish Language | CS Principles Physics C: E&M |
| Friday May 15 |
Environmental Science | Computer Science A |
Late Testing: May 18–22, 2026
Can't make your scheduled exam date? The College Board offers a late testing window during the third week of May for students with qualifying circumstances.
Late Testing Window
May 18–22, 2026
Who Qualifies for Late Testing?
⚠️ Important
Late testing exams are different versions than regular exams to maintain test security. Contact your AP Coordinator by May 15, 2026 to request late testing. Most qualifying reasons don't incur additional fees.
Important 2026 AP Deadlines
Mark these critical dates on your calendar to avoid missing registration windows or portfolio submissions:
NOV
14
2025
Final Exam Ordering Deadline
Last day for AP coordinators to submit exam orders without late fees
JAN
16
2026
SSD Accommodations Deadline
Deadline for disability accommodations requests and documentation
MAR
13
2026
Late Registration Deadline
Final deadline for any changes to exam orders or new registrations
APR
30
2026
Digital Portfolio Deadline
AP Seminar, AP Research, and AP CS Principles performance tasks due (11:59 PM ET)
MAY
8
2026
AP Art and Design Portfolio Deadline
All three portfolio components must be submitted as final (8:00 PM ET)
JULY
2026
AP Scores Released
Scores available online (typically early July) via your College Board account. Learn more about AP scores and what they mean.
Start Times & Logistics
All AP exams follow standardized start time windows. Your specific start time will be confirmed by your AP Coordinator.
☀️ MORNING EXAMS
8–9 AM
Local Time
🌤️ AFTERNOON EXAMS
12–1 PM
Local Time
💡 Pro Tip
Plan to arrive 45–60 minutes early. Testing often happens in a different room than your regular classroom, and you'll need time for check-in procedures.
What to Bring on Exam Day
✅ BRING
- Several No. 2 pencils
- Pens with black or dark blue ink
- Approved calculator (if applicable)
- Photo ID
- Your 6-digit school code
- Watch (no smartwatch)
- Water and snacks (for break)
❌ DO NOT BRING
- Cell phones
- Smartwatches or fitness trackers
- Notes or textbooks
- Unapproved calculators
- Scratch paper
- Food (inside testing room)
- Bluetooth devices or earbuds
Exam Day Tips for Success
Get a Good Night's Sleep
Cramming the night before rarely helps. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep so you're alert and focused.
Eat a Balanced Breakfast
Include protein and complex carbs for sustained energy. Avoid heavy, greasy foods that might make you sluggish.
Know Your Testing Location
Confirm the exact room with your AP Coordinator beforehand—it may not be your regular classroom.
Pace Yourself
Don't spend too long on any single question. Mark difficult ones and return to them if time permits.
Answer Every Question
There's no penalty for guessing on AP exams. Never leave a multiple-choice question blank.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take an AP exam without taking the class?
Yes, in most cases. You can typically take the exam at your own school, or test at a nearby school as a “test-only” candidate. Coordinate with your AP Coordinator early.
What if two of my exams are scheduled at the same time?
You must choose one exam for the scheduled time and request late testing for the other. Contact your AP Coordinator as soon as you identify the conflict.
When will I get my AP scores?
AP scores are typically released in early July (around July 5-8). You'll access them through your College Board account starting at 8 AM Eastern, with staggered release by geographic location. Learn more about how AP scores work and what they mean.
Are all AP exams digital in 2026?
No. While many exams are transitioning to digital or hybrid formats, some subjects remain paper-based. Check with your AP Coordinator for your specific exams.
Will colleges know if I took a late exam?
No. Late testing doesn't appear on your score report or college applications. Colleges only see your final scores, not when you took the exam.
How much do AP exams cost?
The standard fee is around $98 per exam (fees may vary). Students with financial need may qualify for a $37 reduction per exam. Check out our complete guide to AP exam fees for details on costs, fee reductions, and payment deadlines.
Start Preparing Now
The 2026 AP exams are just around the corner. With the schedule in hand, it's time to build your study plan and start reviewing. The earlier you begin, the more confident you'll feel on test day.
Good luck! 🎓
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