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The Transition to Digital AP Exams

In a groundbreaking move, the College Board will shift the majority of Advanced Placement (AP) exams to a digital format this May. This transition, involving over 3 million students and nearly 6 million exams, marks a significant evolution in how AP testing is conducted, as students will be trading in sharpened pencils for powered-up computers.

A New Era of Testing

As announced in July 2024, the College Board is set to digitize exams for 28 out of the 36 AP subjects. This decision arises from the necessity to streamline the examination process, making it more secure, efficient, and aligned with students' digital proficiency. The exams will take place between May 5 and May 16, 2025, and traditional paper exams will be discontinued for the subjects being transitioned.

The digital exams will utilize the Bluebook™ platform, a testing application already familiar to millions of students through their SAT® experiences. This platform combines the practicality of digital testing with user-friendly features that cater specifically to the needs of today's digital natives.

Student Adaptation and Experience

"Feedback from students who have participated in digital AP pilot tests has been overwhelmingly positive. They adapted quickly to the format and found the Bluebook interface easy to navigate," stated Trevor Packer, head of the AP program. Students, being inherently familiar with digital technology, appreciate the simplicity and ease of use that the new interface offers.

In 2024, a considerable number of 650,000 AP exams were administered in a digital format, yielding a satisfaction rating from over 75% of students and administrators alike, who found the digital experience equal to or better than traditional paper tests.

Accessibility and Resources

The Bluebook platform is compatible with common devices, allowing students to utilize either their personal devices or those provided by their schools for exam-taking. Further, free online resources, including practice exams and quizzes, are available through AP Classroom, providing students with the necessary tools to succeed in this new evaluative format.

Safety and Efficiency

Digital exams not only streamline the testing process but also enhance the safety and security of the evaluations for schools. With the emphasis on accessibility, College Board aims to provide a comprehensive digital testing experience, ensuring all students are prepared and able to perform at their best.

About the College Board

With a history spanning over 120 years, the College Board assists more than 7 million students annually in navigating their pathways from high school to higher education and careers. The organization was established with the goal of broadening opportunities for students through initiatives such as the SAT® and AP® programs, which fundamentally aim at enhancing skill development and educational access. Their BigFuture® program further supports students in college planning, funding, and exploring career options.

As the May exams approach, both students and educators anticipate a transformative experience with the digitization of AP exams, setting a precedent for the future of academic evaluation.