AP Late Testing Dates & Schedule | AP Makeup Exams 2026

AP Late Testing for 2026 takes place May 18–22, 2026, one week after the regular exam window. It is for students with conflicts, illnesses, or emergencies, requiring authorization from their AP Coordinator. Late testing does not affect scores or college applications, but requires alternate exam versions

What Is AP Late Testing?

AP late testing is an official backup exam time set by the College Board. It is not a retake and not an option if you simply want more study time. It’s only for students who truly cannot take their exam on the scheduled date.

Late exams use different versions of the test, but they cover the same material and are scored the same way.

Common reasons for late testing include:

• Two AP exams at the same time
• Being sick or injured on exam day
• A religious holiday
• Required school events (sports, academic competitions, trips)
• Family emergencies
• Technical problems with digital exams
• School scheduling mistakes

The College Board sets AP Late testing dates in case students have serious time conflicts with the original testing date.

AP Late Testing Dates & Schedule for 2026

Late testing dates in 2026 are from Monday, May 18, through Friday, May 22, 2026.

Your AP coordinator will confirm your exact reporting time and location.

How to Request AP Late Testing

You don’t request late testing directly through the College Board. Your school’s AP coordinator handles everything.

Here’s the process step by step:

Step 1: Contact Your AP Coordinator Immediately.  As soon as you know you cannot take the AP exam on the scheduled date, inform your AP coordinator.

Step 2: Explain Your Situation. Clearly describe why you need late testing. Be honest and provide specific details. Your coordinator needs to understand whether your reason meets the College Board criteria.

Step 3: Provide Documentation. Gather any supporting documentation. This might include:

• Medical notes or doctor’s certificates
• Letters from religious leaders
• Official school event schedules
• Family emergency documentation

Your coordinator will advise what’s required for your specific situation.

Step 4: Your Coordinator Submits the Request. Your coordinator will order the late test exam through the College Board’s system. They’ll also confirm the date, time, and location for your late test. There is a strict deadline for requesting late testing. In 2026, it has to be done by May 15.

Step 5: Confirmation. Once approved, your coordinator will notify you of your late testing details. Make sure you understand exactly when and where to report.