AP test rooms are randomly freezing or sweltering. Your outfit matters more for comfort than appearance. Here's what to wear — and what to skip.
Wear
- Layers. T-shirt + hoodie + light jacket. You can adjust.
- Comfortable pants. Joggers, jeans, leggings. Not slacks or formal wear that constricts.
- Closed-toe shoes you can sit in for 3 hours.
- An analog watch (no smart features). Helps you pace.
Don't Wear
- Graphic tees with text or images that match exam content. Proctors may ask you to flip the shirt inside out if they think it's a hint.
- Anything with hoods over your face during the exam. Pull it back from the ears for proctor visibility.
- Smartwatches. Confiscated immediately + can void your score.
- Cologne / heavy perfume. Distracts everyone in the room.
- New shoes you haven't broken in. Foot pain mid-exam is real.
What to Leave at Home
- Phone (if you can — many proctors store these but it's better not to bring).
- Smartwatch.
- Hat with prominent logos (some proctors ask you to remove).
- Sunglasses (unless prescription).
Bag/Backpack
Most exam centers store bags at the front of the room. Bring only what you'll need: pencils, pens, ID, AP label sheet, water bottle (clear), snack. Wallet OK. Everything else stays in your bag at the front.
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