The exam is 2 hours and 45 minutes long, with two sections: a 100-minute multiple-choice section (50 questions) and a 105-minute free-response section (4 questions). The free-response questions require you to analyze political systems, make comparisons between countries, and explain concepts using specific examples. Success depends on balancing quick, accurate reading with thoughtful analysis—pacing is critical.

Many students struggle with distinguishing between similar political systems (like Russia and China) and remembering specific details about six different countries simultaneously. Others find it difficult to move beyond surface-level comparisons to deeper analysis, or they run out of time on the free-response section because they haven't practiced writing concise, evidence-based answers. Understanding the 'why' behind political structures—not just the 'what'—is essential for scoring well.

Varsity Tutors connects you with tutors who can help you build a systematic understanding of each country's political system, create comparison frameworks to keep details organized, and practice free-response questions under timed conditions. Tutors can identify which countries or concepts you find most confusing, provide targeted feedback on your analysis skills, and teach you strategies for structuring answers that earn full credit—all personalized to your learning pace.

Score improvement depends on your starting point and effort level, but students who work consistently with a tutor typically see meaningful gains—often 1-2 points on the 1-5 scale. The biggest improvements come from developing stronger analytical skills and learning to structure free-response answers effectively, rather than just memorizing facts. Regular practice with feedback and targeted study on weak areas are key to moving from a 3 to a 4 or 5.

Most students benefit from 2-3 months of consistent preparation, starting after the course material is covered. If you're studying independently or have gaps in understanding, beginning 4-5 months out gives you time to build foundational knowledge before shifting to practice tests and timed writing. Working with a tutor helps you use study time more efficiently by focusing on your specific weak areas rather than reviewing material you already know well.

Practice tests are essential—they help you get comfortable with the exam format, identify which countries or concepts you know least well, and build stamina for the 2 hour 45 minute exam. Taking full-length, timed practice tests every 2-3 weeks during your study period gives you realistic feedback on pacing and reveals patterns in the types of questions you find hardest. A tutor can review your practice test answers to pinpoint whether your struggles are conceptual or strategic.

In your first session, a tutor will assess your current knowledge of the six countries, understand which topics feel most challenging, and learn about your exam timeline and score goals. You might review a practice question together to see how you approach analysis, or discuss your study strategy so far. This helps the tutor create a personalized plan focused on your biggest opportunities for improvement before test day.