AP Comparative Government and Politics

The exam format includes 55 multiple-choice questions and 4 free-response questions. Students are allotted 60 minutes to complete the multiple-choice section and 90 minutes to compose their responses to the free response questions. To make sure you’re prepared enough to finish in time, take a look through our free AP Comparative Government study guide that covers the most important material you should know.

How do I study for AP Comparative Government and Politics?

You’ve likely covered a lot of material during your course this year, but to get a 5 on the AP exam, it’s important you understand how often each topic shows up. Once you take a look through the breakdown below, make sure to read through the AP Comparative Government study guide above with all the key points you should know for each unit.

What units are on AP Comparative Government and Politics?

Unit 1: Political Systems, Regimes, and Governments
This unit will teach you the skills and concepts utilized by political scientists, which you will then apply when analyzing data related to the six course countries.
Unit 2: Political Institutions
In this unit, we will examine the political structure and branches of government in each of the six course countries.
Unit 3: Political Culture and Participation
Using the six course countries as examples, you will study how the citizens interact with, influence, and are influenced by their respective governments.
Unit 4: Party and Electoral Systems and Citizen Organizations
Within the context of the political structures, events, and issues of the six course countries, you will learn about the workings of individuals, parties, and citizen organizations in their pursuit of influence and power.
Unit 5: Political and Economic Changes and Development
This unit delves into how the political systems and power structures of the six course countries are affected by and interact with the global context.

What are the video resources?

We’ve handpicked some of our favorite youtube channels and videos that align with the key topics and themes covered in our AP Comparative Government study guides. These channels can be a great way to examine the political structures; policies; and political, economic, and social challenges of six selected countries: China, Iran, Mexico, Nigeria, Russia, and the United Kingdom.

Where can I ask AP Comparative Government and Politics questions?

Connect with like-minded students who are also preparing for the exam and delve into the world of AP Comparative Government review together. By joining our Discord community, you can collaborate, exchange questions, discuss AP Comparative Government notes, and discuss any tricky problems with fellow AP Comparative Government students. Together, you can better understand challenging concepts, share helpful resources, and support each other on your way to getting a 5!

What is AP Comparative Government and Politics?

AP Comparative Government uses a comparative approach to examine the political structures; policies; and political, economic, and social challenges of six selected countries: China, Iran, Mexico, Nigeria, Russia, and the United Kingdom. You will cultivate your understanding of comparative government and politics through analysis of data and text-based sources as they explore topics like power and authority, legitimacy and stability, democratization, internal and external forces, and methods of political analysis. On this page, you’ll find AP Comparative Government resources to help you with your AP Comparative Government review.