Coronavirus forces AP exams online and open-book. Here are the rules
AP exams are going the way of digital learning — online and open book.
The College Board, which manages college entry exams like the SAT and PSAT in addition to AP tests, announced in March that the exams would be “streamlined” after test dates for the ACT and SAT were postponed.
But now the rules have changed.
In addition to shortening the testing time to just 45 minutes, students will be allowed to use their text books and notes, according to the College Board.
That means they can look at their own notes and resources from class such as old assignments and tests.
“We strongly advise students to organize their materials prior to the AP Exam so they do not waste exam time searching for information or incorporating misinformation,” the College Board says.
Students cannot, however, use outside help from other people or the internet.
Communicating with other people online, in-person or via smart phones is not permitted, according to the College Board. Students are also not allowed to crowdsource from “group messages, online forums or social media” and they cannot use work from another person or “technological service” — such as an online translator.
The College Board has said AP exams will be protected by digital security tools to prevent cheating, but students will be able access their notes or classroom resources via email, classroom sites or online storage.
Special accommodations — including extending the allotted test time — will still be available for qualifying students.
Details on how to access and submit the exams is not yet available.
For more information on testing requirements, practice questions, exam dates, access to technology and free online resources visit the College Board’s website.
