If you’re taking AP Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism, you might be wondering how the exam has evolved. Starting in the 2024–25 cycle, the College Board has updated the exam to better align with the course’s rigorous, college-level content and to give you more time to demonstrate your understanding. In this post, we’ll dive into what’s new, highlight the differences from the old format, and share some tips on how to adjust your study strategies.
What’s New in the AP Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism Exam Format?
Section I: Multiple-Choice (MCQs)
New Structure:
• 40 multiple-choice questions
• 80 minutes to complete the section
• Each question now offers 4 answer choices
Key Change:
• The previous format featured 35 MCQs in 45 minutes with 5 answer choices. Now, you get more questions and more time overall, with a streamlined set of options that can help reduce decision fatigue.
Section II: Free-Response (FRQs)
New Structure:
• 4 free-response questions
• 100 minutes are allocated for this section
• The FRQs are designed to target distinct skill sets:
Mathematical Routines
Translation Between Representations
Experimental Design and Analysis
Qualitative/Quantitative Translation
Key Change:
• Previously, you tackled 3 FRQs in 45 minutes. With the new format, you have an extra question and significantly more time to craft thoughtful, well-organized answers.
Hybrid Digital Administration
Format Transition:
• The multiple-choice section is now taken digitally, while the free-response section remains handwritten on paper.
• Additionally, AP Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism is now administered in its own testing session—separate from AP Physics C: Mechanics—so you can focus solely on the concepts of electromagnetism.
Find latest syllabus, official specification by the College Board and AP Physics practice resources here.
How Does This Compare to the Old Format?
Let’s break down the key differences in a side-by-side comparison:
Feature | Old Format | New Format (2025) |
Multiple-Choice Section | 35 questions in 45 minutes; 5 options each | 40 questions in 80 minutes; 4 options each |
Free-Response Section | 3 questions in 45 minutes | 4 questions in 100 minutes |
Exam Administration | Entirely paper-based; often paired with Mechanics | Hybrid digital (MCQs online, FRQs handwritten); separate testing session for Electricity and Magnetism |
Key Takeaways:
More Time & More Questions: With the increased number of MCQs and extended time for both sections, you have more room to work through challenging problems.
Simplified Answer Choices: Switching to 4 options per question can help reduce test anxiety by making it a bit easier to choose your answer.
Dedicated Testing Session: Separating Electricity and Magnetism from Mechanics means you can concentrate fully on electromagnetism without having to shift gears mid-exam.
What Do These Changes Mean for Your Preparation?
For the Multiple-Choice Section:
Digital Familiarity:
• Practice online with digital test simulations to get comfortable with the computer-based interface.
Pacing:
• With 40 questions in 80 minutes, you should aim for roughly 2 minutes per question. Use timed practice sessions to refine your pace.
For the Free-Response Section:
Detailed, Structured Responses:
• Use the extra time wisely by organizing your answers clearly and showing your work step-by-step.
Skill Focus:
• Emphasize practicing mathematical routines, converting between different representations (like diagrams and equations), and designing experiments. These skills are now distinctly assessed by separate FRQs.
Overall Strategy:
Simulate the Exam Experience:
• Combine digital MCQ practice with traditional handwritten FRQ practice to mirror the hybrid exam setup.
Review Conceptual and Applied Skills:
• With changes in the format, the exam will continue to challenge your understanding of electromagnetism concepts. Focus on deepening your conceptual knowledge and applying it through problem-solving exercises.
Wrapping Up
The new AP Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism exam format is designed to provide you with more time and a clearer structure to showcase your mastery of electromagnetism. With a shift to a hybrid digital model, streamlined multiple-choice questions, and more comprehensive free-response tasks, you’re encouraged to think deeply, manage your time effectively, and demonstrate your understanding in multiple ways.
What do you think of these changes? Are you excited about having more time for FRQs, or do you have concerns about the digital MCQ format?!
Happy studying, and here’s to acing AP Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism!
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