Contrary to 2020 and 2021, when the AP exam pattern was altered owing to the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2022 AP exams had the original pattern returned. This year, the AP exams were conducted over two weeks in May: May 2–6 and May 9–13. Given below is an article that well explains the AP Chemistry exam format for AP exam 2023!
Why take the AP Chemistry exam?
Advanced Placement Chemistry, or AP Chemistry, is a chemistry course and test conducted by the College Board in the United States. The college board administers this AP Chemistry test to assist high school students across America and Canada. Clearing this exam enables students to stand out on college applications and earn college credit.
AP Chemistry Syllabus 2023
The AP Chemistry exam evaluates your proficiency in fundamental chemistry theories, consisting of states of matter, atomic structure, intermolecular forces, and chemical reactions. Moreover, the exam examines your ability to use the scientific method and examine data.
The AP Chemistry syllabus involves nine critical units of study:
- Atomic Structure & Properties
- Molecular & Ionic Compound Structure & Properties
- Intermolecular Forces & Properties
- Chemical Reactions
- Kinetics
- Thermodynamics
- Equilibrium
- Acids and Bases
- Applications of Thermodynamics
Format of the AP Chemistry exam 2023
The AP Chemistry exam has compatible types of questions, weightage, and scoring instructions every year.
Section I consists of Multiple-Choice types of questions. AP Chemistry multiple choice consists of 60 questions that students must complete in 1 hour and 30 minutes. Students have to obtain 50% of exam scores. Questions are either separate or in sets, in which students are provided with a set of data and a sequence of related questions. Unlike the past, the upcoming 2023 AP exam allows a calculator in Section I.
Section II consists of free response questions (7 questions to be completed within 1 hour 45 minutes). Students have to get 50% of the exam score. It consists of three long-answer, which are of 10 points each, and four short-answer questions, which are of 4 points each. The questions in section 2 assess all six of the course skills, namely models and representations, question, and method, representing data and phenomena, model analysis, mathematical routines, and argumentation. A scientific or graphing calculator is allowed for use in Section II.
Download the detailed AP Chemistry Course and Exam Description – Effective Fall 2022 >>>
Frequently asked questions about the AP exam format
1. What is the duration of the AP Chemistry exam in 2023?
It will be 3 hours and 15 minutes long.
2. What’s the pattern of the AP Chemistry Exam 2023?
The exam consists of two sections, namely a multiple-choice and a free-response section.
3. What is the latest update on AP Calculator Policy?
Calculators are now permitted on both sections of the exam, starting with the AP exam 2023, as per the latest AP Exam Calculator Policy 2023.
- Students can use calculators in all or some sections of the AP Exams.
- Students should carefully check the list of approved graphing calculators. They can bring only authorized models.
- Students can bring up to two allowed calculators. They should use calculators they’re familiar with and in good working condition.
- Students cannot share calculators.
- Students cannot clear calculator memories before or after the exam.
Special cases: If a student doesn’t want to use a calculator whilst the exam or using a calculator isn’t practicable, the student can appear without a calculator. In this case, you have to sign the Calculator Release Statement on the day of the exam.
For detailed calculator policy guidelines, check here!
4. What does the AP exam administrating facility provide?
Sheets containing commonly used equations and constants in chemistry are provided. And you can use them in both sections viz multiple-choice and free-response. In addition, AP students are equipped with a periodic table of elements.
5. How are AP scores evaluated?
The AP exam scores range on a scale of 1 to 5. Colleges usually look for a score of 4 or 5. However, a few colleges offer credit for a score of 3. Each exam is curved, so scores differ from year to year.
Is 5 your AP score? –> Extremely qualified
Is 4 your AP score? –> Well qualified
Is 3 your AP score? –> Qualified
Is 2 your AP score? –> Possibly qualified
Is 1 your AP score? –> No recommendation
For essential tips on obtaining a perfect AP score, check out the interview with Dawn Mueller, a Ph.D.-holding educational consultant.
Does Chemistry Bench provide any free AP Chemistry exam prep resources?
The Chemistry Bench is offering students several free resources to help them get ready for the exam.
Stay tuned for AP Chemistry practice (multiple choice) tests!
You can avail of our one-on-one AP Chemistry Online course that will help you develop the skills required for the AP exam. Even if you work full time, you can study from our sources anytime. If you have specific requirements or preferences, we can tailor the classes for you. Also, Chemistry Bench conducts group classes for AP Chem exam preparation. Indeed, it is one of the best online chemistry tutoring platform for students.
By now, you must be clear with the AP Chemistry exam format for the upcoming AP exam 2023. If you find this blog insightful, please drop in a comment!
Best Wishes,
Chemistry Bench
