About the Exam

Exam Format (as of 2025)

Total Time: 3 hours

Multiple Choice (digital): 

• 40 questions (4 options), 80 minutes, 50% of score

Free Response (handwritten): 

• 4 questions, 100 minutes, 50% of score

• Targets four different standardized question types:

  • Mathematical routines

  • Translation between representations

  • Experimental design and analysis

  • Qualitative/Quantitative translation

Misc: Calculator allowed, given a formula sheet

What makes the exam hard?

• Calculus-Based Physics

  • Unlike AP Physics 1 (which is algebra-based), Physics C: Mechanics uses calculus

    • Application of derivatives (ex. acceleration, force)

    • Application of integrals (ex. work, moments of inertia)

• Depth of Content

  • AP Physics C: Mechanics requires students to derive results from first principles, apply concepts to multi-step problems that combine several physics laws (ex. combining energy, torque, and kinematics), and solve problems in unusual or abstract situations

• Time Pressure

  • While the new test format has increased the time for each section,

    • MCQs are computation-heavy and require unit analysis or multiple steps

    • FRQs demand detailed reasoning, multiple parts, and often calculus-based justifications

  • Speed and precision are necessary

  • Questions are often non-linear: Later parts depend on earlier steps/questions

• High Competition & Tight Curve

  • AP Physics C: Mechanics is taken by a self-selecting group: most students who take the exam plan to major in STEM

    • This means exam takers are already comfortable with calculus and physics

  • College Board sets a tight scoring curve, so even small mistakes can drop your score

Why should I take the exam?

• Earn College Credit / Skip Intro Physics

  • Scoring well can let students skip introductory physics in college, especially for those entering engineering, physics, or pre-med fields

• Boost STEM College Prep

  • Taking this exam shows colleges students are ready for rigorous, calculus-based sciences, and it strengthens their applications for STEM majors

• Build a Strong Physics Foundation

  • AP Physics C: Mechanics gives students a deep understanding of classical mechanics (the backbone of all physics), so students are more confident and better prepared for college-level science courses.