What to Expect on Exam Day
There are many strict guidelines for the administration of AP exams. It is important that you read and follow all instructions.
Most exams take place in one of the spaces in the PAC or in the PE Gym (also known as the Visual Arts Building; it's next to the library, across the courtyard from the main building). You will receive an email with your exam location, but you won't know your seat number until you arrive for your exam. Students who receive accommodations for testing will be notified by counselor Caty Broderick of their room assignment and reporting time. Please be sure to follow her instructions.
Morning Exam: Report by 7:30
Afternoon Exam: Report by Noon
Exams will begin by 8:00 and by 12:30; instructions begin 10 minutes prior to the start time. We will not hold the start of the exam for late students.
Exams range in length from 2 hours and 10 minutes to 3 hours and 25 minutes -- not including the time required for reading instructions or for distributing and picking up test materials.
In order to start afternoon exams on time, we have to start morning exams early. Also, a significant number of Westlake students end up having two exams on the same day, so it's critical that we can finish the morning exam in time for those students to make it to the afternoon exam (and hopefully have time to eat a few bites of lunch on the way).
Supplies
No. 2 pencil (NOT a mechanical pencil)
Pen with black or dark blue ink
Eraser
Calculator (if applicable)
Hand sanitizer
A fully charged iPad and charger for digital exams only
School-issued iPad for digital exams only
Snack/Drink (optional)
These will need to be left on top of your bag/backpack outside the testing room.
You may enjoy these during the 10 minute break between Section I and Section II of the exam.
Jacket/Blanket
Some testing rooms are chilly, so dress in layers or bring a jacket or blanket to ensure your comfort.
Watch
It's fine to wear or bring a watch that is not a smart one and does not have alarms that go off.
The following should either be left at home or put in your bag or backpack. They are NOT allowed in the testing room.
Cell Phone
This is true for all standardized testing. You will be dismissed and your exam will be cancelled if you have a cell phone in the testing room. Do not jeopardize your exam score and the scores of your classmates-keep your phone in your bag outside of the testing space and do NOT access it during the break.
Smart Watch
Same as above.
Any other electronic devices.
Snacks and Drinks
Leave them on top of your bag or backpack outside the testing room.