AP scores range from 1 to 5, with a 3 considered passing and qualifying for college credit at most institutions. Many colleges grant credit for a 4 or 5, and some competitive schools prefer a 5. Your target score depends on your college goals and major—political science, international relations, and pre-law students often aim for a 4 or higher. Personalized tutoring can help you identify your current strengths and weaknesses, then build a focused study plan to reach your target score.

Students often struggle with distinguishing between similar political systems, remembering details about six different countries, and applying concepts to unfamiliar scenarios on the exam. The free-response section requires you to make comparisons and support claims with specific examples—many students know the material but struggle to organize their thoughts clearly under time pressure. Additionally, the emphasis on analysis rather than memorization can be tricky if you're used to fact-based testing. Tutors can help you develop comparison frameworks and practice structuring responses efficiently.

The exam has two sections: 55 multiple-choice questions (50 minutes) and three free-response questions (75 minutes). For the multiple-choice section, pace yourself at roughly one minute per question and eliminate obviously wrong answers before guessing. For free-response, read all three questions first, identify which country examples fit each prompt, and allocate about 25 minutes per response. Practicing with released exams under timed conditions helps you refine your pacing and identify which question types trip you up most.

Most students benefit from 3-4 months of consistent preparation, especially if they're taking the course alongside tutoring. A realistic study schedule includes weekly review of course material, monthly practice tests to track progress, and targeted work on weak areas in the final 4-6 weeks before the exam. Starting early gives you time to build deep understanding of each country's system rather than cramming facts at the last minute. Tutors can help you create a personalized timeline based on your current knowledge and target score.

Practice tests are essential—they show you exactly what the exam format looks like, help you identify which topics need more work, and build your stamina for the full 2-hour exam. Taking full-length practice tests under timed conditions every 2-3 weeks lets you track score improvement and adjust your study strategy. The College Board releases free past exams, and analyzing your mistakes reveals patterns—whether you're misunderstanding concepts, misreading questions, or running out of time. Tutors can review your practice test performance with you and target instruction on your specific weak points.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors for students in Memphis who specialize in AP Comparative Government and Politics. You can specify your target score, preferred study schedule, and any particular topics you want to focus on—whether that's understanding Russian institutions, comparing policy-making across countries, or mastering free-response writing. Tutors work with you to build a customized study plan and provide personalized instruction tailored to your learning style and pace.

Your first session typically includes an assessment of your current knowledge—which country systems you understand well, which topics feel fuzzy, and how comfortable you are with the exam format. You'll discuss your target score, timeline, and any specific challenges you're facing. From there, your tutor will outline a personalized study plan, explain their teaching approach, and often start with foundational concepts or your weakest area. This gives you a clear roadmap and helps you build confidence right away.