AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based

Learn all about the course and exam. Already enrolled? Join your class in My AP.

Not a Student?

Go to AP Central for resources for teachers, administrators, and coordinators.

About the Exam

The AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based Exam will test your understanding of the scientific concepts covered in the course units, as well as your ability to use algebra when solving problems related to Newtonian mechanics, energy, and more.

This is a hybrid digital exam. You’ll complete multiple-choice questions and view free-response questions in the Bluebook testing app. You’ll handwrite your free-response answers in paper exam booklets.

Calculators are permitted for this exam. See AP Exams Calculator Policy for the list of calculators approved for this course. 

Reference materials, such as equations sheets and reference tables, are available for this course. Go to Reference Information for Specific AP Exams to find reference materials for AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based and exam day details. 

Exam Duration
3hrs

Exam Date

Wed, May 6, 2026

12 PM Local

AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based Exam

This is the regularly scheduled date for the AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based Exam.

Exam Components

Section I: Multiple Choice

40 Questions 1hr 20mins 50% of Score

Questions are either discrete questions or question sets, in which you'll be provided with a stimulus or a set of data and a series of related questions.

 

Section II: Free Response

4 Questions 1hr 40mins 50% of Score

This section contains 4 free-response questions of the following types:

  • Mathematical routines
  • Translation between representations
  • Experimental design and analysis
  • Qualitative/quantitative translation

 

Exam Preparation

Credit and Placement

Search AP Credit Policies

Find colleges that grant credit and/or placement for AP Exam scores in this and other AP courses.