Exam: Wednesday, May 5, 2027 (afternoon)
AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based
Everything for the AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based exam on Wednesday, May 5, 2027 (afternoon): the official units and how much each is worth, the exam format, how long the exam is, how to study, and a free week-by-week study plan.
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What's on the AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based exam
| Section | Questions | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Section I: Multiple choice (in Bluebook) | 42 questions | 85 minutes (50%) |
| Section II: Free response (handwritten) | 4 questions | 95 minutes (50%) |
A hybrid digital exam. From May 2027 multiple choice is 42 questions in 85 minutes (was 40 in 80) and free response 95 minutes (was 100). Weightings below are shares of the multiple-choice score.
Estimate your AP Physics 1 scoreEnter your practice test points and see your estimated AP score from 1 to 5.AP Physics 1 units and exam weightings
- Unit 1: Kinematics10–15%
- Unit 2: Force and Translational Dynamics18–23%
- Unit 3: Work, Energy, and Power18–23%
- Unit 4: Linear Momentum10–15%
- Unit 5: Torque and Rotational Dynamics10–15%
- Unit 6: Energy and Momentum of Rotating Systems5–8%
- Unit 7: Oscillations5–8%
- Unit 8: Fluids10–15%
How to study for the AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based exam
- Master forces and energy firstForce and Translational Dynamics and Work, Energy, and Power are each 18–23% of the multiple-choice score, the biggest units.
- Understand, don't memoriseQuestions test reasoning about situations. Explain why an equation applies before you use it.
- Use the equation sheetYou get an official equation sheet in the exam. Practise with it so you know where everything is.
- Practise free-response writingFree response is half your score. Write clear explanations with diagrams and labelled steps.
How long should you study for the AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based exam?
The AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based exam takes 3 hours. For studying, we suggest steady review alongside your class through the year, then about 8–12 weeks of focused exam preparation at 3–5 hours a week before Wednesday, May 5, 2027.
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AP Physics 1 study plan FAQs
When is the AP Physics 1 exam in 2027?
The AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based exam is on Wednesday, May 5, 2027 (afternoon), according to College Board's 2027 AP Exam schedule. Your AP coordinator confirms the time and room.
How long is the AP Physics 1 exam?
The exam takes 3 hours: multiple choice (in bluebook) (42 questions, 85 minutes (50%)); free response (handwritten) (4 questions, 95 minutes (50%)).
Is AP Physics 1 hard?
AP Physics 1 is often seen as one of the harder AP courses because it tests conceptual reasoning, not just plugging into formulas. Practising explanations and problem-solving regularly makes a big difference.
What units are on the AP Physics 1 exam?
The course has 8 units: 1. Kinematics (10–15%); 2. Force and Translational Dynamics (18–23%); 3. Work, Energy, and Power (18–23%); 4. Linear Momentum (10–15%); 5. Torque and Rotational Dynamics (10–15%); 6. Energy and Momentum of Rotating Systems (5–8%); 7. Oscillations (5–8%); 8. Fluids (10–15%).
How do I study for AP Physics 1?
Master forces and energy first. Understand, don't memorise. Use the equation sheet. Practise free-response writing. Use the free study plan above to spread your review across every unit before the exam.
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StudyCoach isn't affiliated with or endorsed by the organizations that make the AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based exam (AP® is a trademark of College Board). Check the official website for test dates, registration and the latest format.
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