The AP Chinese Exam, language learning and culture combined.

The AP Chinese Exam is a comprehensive method to get acquainted with the Chinese culture. The exam can be taken by high school students learning Chinese as a second language as well as native speakers. It enables the student to improve in all elements of the Chinese language from speaking and listening to Reading and Writing Chinese Language.


what is the AP Chinese exam about?

The AP Chinese exam is part of the College Board’s initiative to promote multiculturalism. High school students based on their performance in the exam can earn college credit towards their foreign language requirements under the Advanced Placement program. The exam is equivalent to a fourth semester or college course in Mandarin Chinese.

The questions focus on the three major communication modes testing the student’s interpersonal, interpretive and presentation skills. Preparing for the exam requires extensive practice as often students struggle to answer the question within the stipulated time frame. Also one-on-one live sessions whether online or face to face with experienced teachers will ensure that students are guided according to their strengths and weaknesses.


Upon successful completion of the exam the student will be able to

• communicate in Chinese especially in daily situations


• appreciate Chinese culture and understand the Oriental way of life


• connect with other subject areas related to the Chinese language


• compare the Chinese language with the languages already learnt


• be a part of the global community emphasizing a multi-lingual and multi-cultural environment

Exam date and duration
The exam duration is of about 2 hours and 15 minutes and is usually held in the middle of the year around May. The AP Chinese exam is designed in such a manner that the student while preparing for the exam also comes to know various aspects of the Chinese culture.


The AP Chinese Exam Preparation should focus on applying the language skills learnt. Since the exam includes significant references to Chinese culture the preparation course should include material that gives them an idea how the Chinese people live and have lived in the past. Studying topics related to Chinese history as well as philosophy would help students better understand the Chinese speaking world.