How Students are Preparing for AP/IB Exams by Bella Favuzza and Regan Faherty
As the school year winds down, a new kind of pressure is building for students enrolled in Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) classes: exam season. With scores that can earn college credit or help students stand out in the admissions process, these high-stakes tests require serious preparation-and students across campus are getting ready in their own unique ways.
Many students are taking advantage of the online resources at their fingertips. “I try to find material online and I search for videos on what I need to prepare for on the exams,” said Dev Chovatia, an IB student. Others are relying on more traditional methods. “To study for my AP HUG exam, I am using textbooks, worksheets, Quizlets, and resources given in class to familiarize myself with a lot of vocabulary terms, concepts, and information about different countries, populations, and cultures,” explained Lucie Frank. “I’m also using flash cards to help myself remember the vocab.”
Practice exams have become a favorite among students looking to get used to the real testing format. “To prep for my AP exams, I take AP practice tests on the weekends and review all the material,” said Isaiah Lopez. Madison Steeger agreed, saying, “I’ve been doing the assigned practice exams and looking over study guides.” Many students have also found the AP Classroom platform helpful. “In AP, we’re doing AP practice tests and AP Classroom assignments that’s been helping,” said Kyla Robinson.
Beyond academics, students have their own routines and rituals to help them feel confident on test day. “On test day, I make sure I get a good night's sleep and eat a good breakfast,” Isaiah Lopez shared. Some even bring specific snacks and drinks to help keep them alert during breaks. “I always bring Mountain Dew to have during break,” said Madison Steeger. When asked if it helps, she added, “Yes, it keeps me locked in.” Mikayla Chizek takes a slightly different approach: “I get a cherry twist Alani and a bag of garlic Parmesan pretzel crisps.”
Reading and note-taking also play a big role in exam prep, especially for students juggling multiple AP and IB classes. “I have been reading a lot of classic literature outside of class as well as looking up practice AP tests while doing a ton of AP Classroom stuff in class,” Mikayla Chizek said. When asked if her routine helps, she added, “Maybe? I’ve scored a 4 or 5 every exam I’ve done it so it honestly could help me.” Kyla Robinson is also taking a comprehensive approach: “I’m just focusing a lot on taking notes in my IB psych class, making flash cards and making sure I know the studies. Also remembering the books we’ve read so I can use them for a sophistication point during the essay section.”
With exams quickly approaching, students continue to find what works best for them, combining digital tools, hands-on study techniques, and personal rituals. Whether it’s flashcards, literature, or garlic Parmesan pretzel crisps, everyone is doing what they can to feel prepared-and hopefully, succeed.