AP United States History
Master key historical concepts, analyze primary sources, and prepare effectively for the AP United States History exam covering early Americas to the modern era.
Total questions
60
Duration
195 min
Options / question
4
Test sections
Curriculum
United States History
1645 questionsAbout the exam
The Advanced Placement (AP) United States History exam evaluates high school students on their understanding of American history from approximately 1491 to the present. Developed by the College Board, this college-level assessment measures students' ability to analyze historical evidence, write thematic essays, and construct arguments based on primary and secondary sources. The exam is divided into two sections. Section I includes multiple-choice questions based on stimulus material and short-answer questions. Section II consists of the Document-Based Question (DBQ), which requires students to write an essay using provided historical documents, and a Long Essay Question (LEQ) chosen from a set of prompts. To prepare effectively, students should regularly practice analyzing historical documents, identifying cause-and-effect relationships, and constructing thesis-driven arguments. Consistently taking timed practice tests helps build the pacing needed to successfully navigate both the multiple-choice and writing sections.
Registration & key dates
Students typically register for AP exams through their high school's AP coordinator. The College Board administers these exams once a year in May, with registration usually occurring several months prior, often in the late fall or early spring. For official details regarding deadlines, fees, and accommodation requests, students should consult their school's AP coordinator or check the official College Board website for the most accurate and up-to-date announcements.
Frequently asked questions
How many questions are on the AP United States History?
The AP United States History has 60 questions in total.
How long is the AP United States History?
The AP United States History lasts 195 minutes.
Where can I practice AP United States History questions for free?
Examkin offers 1645 free AP United States History practice questions with step-by-step explanations, plus timed mock exams.
What is the format of the AP United States History exam?
The exam consists of two sections. The first section contains multiple-choice and short-answer questions, while the second section consists of a Document-Based Question (DBQ) and a Long Essay Question (LEQ).
How is the AP United States History exam scored?
The exam is scored on a scale of 1 to 5. The multiple-choice section accounts for 40% of the total score, while the short-answer, DBQ, and LEQ sections make up the remaining 60%.
How difficult is the AP US History exam?
Many students find the exam challenging due to the depth of historical knowledge required and the emphasis on writing skills. However, consistent practice and strong analytical skills can significantly improve performance.
What is the best way to practice for the APUSH exam?
The best approach is to practice with official past exam questions, especially for the DBQ and LEQ writing portions. Taking timed practice tests also helps you manage your time effectively during the actual exam.
Can I retake the AP United States History exam if I am not satisfied with my score?
Yes, AP exams are administered once a year in May, allowing you to retake the exam the following year if desired. Both scores will be reported unless you explicitly request the College Board to withhold or cancel a score.