The exam consists of two sections: a multiple-choice section with 80 questions (50 minutes) and a free-response section with 3 essays (60 minutes). The multiple-choice tests visual analysis and historical knowledge, while the essays require you to analyze specific artworks, compare works across cultures, or discuss broader artistic movements. Time management is critical—many students struggle with pacing through the visual analysis questions, which is why practice tests are essential for building test-day confidence.

Students often struggle with memorizing hundreds of artworks and their historical contexts, distinguishing between similar artistic periods, and developing strong visual analysis skills under timed conditions. Many also find it challenging to write concise essays that connect specific artworks to broader historical themes. Personalized tutoring helps you build systematic study strategies, learn efficient memorization techniques, and practice analyzing unfamiliar artworks—skills that directly transfer to exam day.

A score of 3 or higher is considered passing and earns college credit at most institutions, though competitive colleges often prefer 4s and 5s. The national average score is typically around 2.5-3, so scoring a 4 or 5 puts you well above average. With focused preparation and consistent practice, most students can improve their performance by working with a tutor to strengthen weak areas and develop strategic test-taking approaches.

Most students benefit from 3-4 months of consistent preparation, with study sessions 3-4 times per week. If you're starting closer to exam day, intensive tutoring can help you prioritize the highest-impact topics and practice tests. The key is balancing breadth (covering all four time periods) with depth (truly understanding major artworks and movements rather than surface-level memorization).

Visual analysis is a skill that improves with deliberate practice. Start by analyzing unfamiliar artworks using a structured framework: identify the medium, subject matter, composition, and historical context, then connect these observations to broader artistic movements. Tutors can teach you efficient analysis strategies and have you practice on dozens of artworks—both famous pieces and lesser-known works—so you develop confidence analyzing anything on exam day.

Test anxiety often stems from uncertainty about what to expect. Taking full-length practice tests under timed conditions builds familiarity with the exam format and reduces anxiety significantly. Working with a tutor to review practice tests, identify patterns in your mistakes, and develop a personalized test-day strategy also builds confidence. Knowing you've thoroughly prepared and have a solid approach to each section helps you stay calm and focused.

Your first session focuses on understanding your current knowledge level, identifying your strongest and weakest time periods, and assessing your visual analysis skills. Varsity Tutors connects you with an expert tutor who will discuss your goals, create a personalized study plan, and often start with a practice test or sample questions to pinpoint exactly where to focus your efforts. This foundation ensures every subsequent session builds directly toward your target score.