A.P.E.S Exam Information

Exam Overview

Exam questions assess the course concepts and skills outlined in the course framework. For more information, download the AP Environmental Science Course and Exam Description (CED).

Be sure to visit the AP Environmental Science student page for more exam information.

Exam Format

The AP Environmental Science Exam has question types and point values that will remain stable and consistent from year to year, so you and your students know what to expect on exam day.

Section I: Multiple Choice

80 Questions | 1 Hour 30 Minutes | 60% of Exam Score

Individual questions

Set-based questions

• • 3–4 sets include quantitative data, such as data tables, charts, or graphs. These questions primarily assess Practice 5, but can also assess Practices 1, 4, 6, or 7.

  • 3–4 sets include qualitative data or information, such as models, representations, or maps. These questions primarily assess Practice 2, but can also assess Practices 1, 4, or 7.

  • 2 sets include text-based sources. These questions primarily assess Practice 3, but can also assess Practices 1, 6, or 7.

Section II: Free Response

3 Questions | 1 Hour 10 Minutes | 40% of Exam Score

There are 3 free-response questions.:

• • Question 1: Design an investigation presents students with an authentic environmental scenario accompanied by either a model/visual representation or quantitative data.

  • Question 2: Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution presents students with an authentic environmental scenario accompanied by either a model/visual representation or quantitative data.

  • Question 3: Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations presents students with an authentic environmental scenario.

AP Calculator Policy and Equations Sheet

A four-function, scientific, or graphing calculator is allowed on both sections of the exam. AP Environmental science does NOT have an equation sheet. You are responsible for knowing any formulas and common conversion factors for the exam. However - you are allowed to use a graphing calculator and are not required to delete notes from the calculator. If you wish to store equations on your calculator, you may do so (but this wastes time!)