AP Macroeconomics
AP Macroeconomics covers the principles of economics as they apply to the economy as a whole — national income, price levels, economic growth, and monetary/fiscal policy.
Total score | 1–5 |
Total testing time | 2 hours 10 minutes |
Adaptive? | No |
Calculator | Simple 4-function calculator only (scientific or graphing calculators not allowed) |
Units
Unit | Title | Exam weight |
|---|---|---|
1 | Basic Economic Concepts | 5–10% |
2 | Economic Indicators and the Business Cycle | 12–17% |
3 | National Income and Price Determination | 17–27% |
4 | Financial Sector | 18–23% |
5 | Long-Run Consequences of Stabilization Policies | 20–30% |
6 | Open Economy — International Trade and Finance | 10–13% |
Sections and timing
Section | Questions & time | Content covered |
|---|---|---|
Section I: Multiple Choice | 60 questions in 70 min (69.6 sec/question) | Principles and Models, Interpretation, Manipulation (includes Numerical Analysis); five-choice MC; 66.67% of score |
Section II: Free Response | 3 questions in 60 min (includes 10-min reading period; suggested: Q1: 30 min, Q2–Q3: 15 min each) | Q1 Long (10 pts): Principles and Models, Interpretation, Manipulation, Graphing and Visuals; Q2–Q3 Short (5 pts each); 33.33% of score |
Free response question language
Identify / What? / Which?: Provide information without elaboration.
Explain: Describe how or why, using evidence or reasoning. Graphs are acceptable.
Calculate: Perform mathematical steps; showing work is required.
Draw a correctly labeled: Create a graph illustrating relationships. Labels are required.
Show / Label / Plot / Indicate: Indicate an economic scenario on a graph with all axes and curves labeled.
FAQs
How often can students take the test?
Once per year, typically in early May.
How long does it take to get scores back?
Typically released around July 5th.
Is a reference sheet provided?
No.
Is the exam adaptive?
No.
Zinkerz Syllabus: Link to be added.