The AP World History exam tests students’ understanding
of world history from approximately 8000 B.C.E. to the present covering significant events, individuals, developments, and processes in six historical periods.
Themes include interaction between humans and the environment; development and interaction of cultures; state building, expansion, and conflict; creation, expansion, and interaction of economic systems; development and transformation of social structures across the five major geographical regions of the globe: Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, and Oceania.
The AP World History test is given by The College Board which is a mission-driven not-for-profit organization that connects students to college success and opportunity.
Founded in 1900, the College Board was created to expand access to higher education. Today, the membership association is made up of over 6,000 of the world’s leading educational institutions and is dedicated to promoting excellence and equity in education.
Each year, the College Board helps more than seven million students prepare for a successful transition to college through programs and services in college readiness and college success. The organization also serves the education community through research and advocacy on behalf of students, educators and schools.
This exam is available to all but is especially relevant to juniors and senior high school students.
Schedule a meeting with your school counselor or a teacher to learn about the process for taking this exam including deadlines for signing up for courses at your school.
There are many reasons to take AP courses but many students choose the AP World History exam to set themselves apart in college admission and to earn the college credit and placement that come with a successful exam score.
The exam is three hours and 15 minutes long and includes both a 1 hour and 45 minute multiple-choice and short-answer section and a 1 hour and 30 minute free-response section.