Score improvement depends on your starting point and effort level. Students who work consistently with a tutor typically see gains of 1-2 score points on the 1-5 scale, particularly when they focus on weak areas like comparative analysis or free-response essays. The key is identifying which countries or concepts you struggle with and building targeted practice around those gaps before test day.

Many students struggle with comparative analysis—the exam requires you to draw connections and contrasts between countries, not just describe them individually. Others find it difficult to manage the breadth of content across six countries, or they underestimate the free-response section, which demands clear explanations and specific examples. Time management during the exam is another common issue, especially when balancing the multiple-choice and free-response sections.

Your first session typically focuses on understanding your current knowledge level and identifying your specific needs. A tutor will likely discuss which countries or topics feel strongest, where you're struggling, and what your score goals are. From there, they'll create a personalized study plan that targets your weak areas and builds a framework for comparative thinking throughout the course.

Practice tests are essential—they help you understand the exam's question formats, pacing demands, and the types of comparisons the test makers expect. Taking full-length practice tests under timed conditions reveals whether you're struggling with content knowledge or test-taking strategy. Most students benefit from taking at least 3-4 full practice tests before exam day, with a tutor helping you analyze mistakes and refine your approach.

Free-response questions reward specific examples and clear comparative analysis. Effective strategies include outlining your response before writing to organize your comparisons, using a consistent structure for each country you discuss, and always connecting your examples back to the question prompt. Tutors can help you practice these techniques and develop templates that work for different question types, so you're confident on test day.

A typical study schedule spans 2-3 months, with early weeks focused on building foundational knowledge about each country's system, and later weeks emphasizing comparative practice and free-response writing. In the final 2-3 weeks, shift to full-length practice tests and targeted review of weak areas. A tutor can help you create a realistic timeline that fits your schedule and ensures you're covering all six countries thoroughly without cramming.

Varsity Tutors connects students in Atlanta with tutors who specialize in AP Comparative Government and Politics and understand the specific demands of the exam. When you get matched with a tutor, you can discuss their experience with the course, their approach to teaching comparative analysis, and how they've helped other students improve their scores. Most tutors offer flexible scheduling to work around your school and extracurricular commitments.