AP Computer Science Principles
Course Information
AP Computer Science Principles is an introductory college-level computing course designed to give students a broad understanding of computer science and its role in the modern world.
Subject Area: Computer Science
UC A-G Area: D – Science
Course Level: Advanced Placement
Open Terms: Summer & Fall
Enrollment Information
Course Start: 9/12/2026
Course End: 5/1/2027
Class Mode: Onsite/Online
Enrollment Period: 5/1/2026-8/30/2026
Related College Majors
This course provides useful preparation for many technical, analytical, and interdisciplinary college pathways, including:
Computer Science / Information Technology / Data Science / Cybersecurity / Business Administration / Cognitive Science / Graphic Design / Media Arts
Prerequisites
Students should:
- Have an overall GPA of 3.5 or prior coding experience
Students should also have completed a first-year high school algebra course and be comfortable with basic functions, logical reasoning, multi-step problem-solving, and collaborative work.
Prior programming experience can be helpful but is not required for students who meet Franklin Academy’s academic readiness expectations.
Course Units
- Creative Development
- Data
- Algorithms and Programming
- Computer Systems and Networks
- Impact of Computing
Comparison Table
2027 AP Exam Information
Exam Date: May 14, 2027 | Exam Duration: 3 Hours
Section I
End-of-Course Multiple Choice
- 70 questions
- 2 Hours
- 70% of Score
The section includes:
- 57 single-select multiple-choice questions
- 5 single-select questions based on a reading passage about a computing innovation
- 8 multiple-select questions requiring 2 answers
Students are assessed on topics including:
- Programming and algorithms
- Data
- Computing systems
- Networks
- Computing innovations
- Societal and ethical impacts of technology
All responses are completed digitally in Bluebook.
Section II
Create Performance Task and Written Response
- 30% of Score
- Create Performance Task completed during the course
- 2 written-response questions
- 1 Hour on exam day
Create Performance Task
Students develop a computer program of their choice and complete at least 9 hours of in-class work.
Students submit three components through the AP Digital Portfolio:
- Program Code
- Video of the Program Running
- Personalized Project Reference
The Personalized Project Reference includes selected code segments from the student’s program and is used during the written-response portion of the AP Exam.
Written-Response Questions
Students answer 2 written-response questions based on their own Create Performance Task.
The questions include four response areas:
- Program Design, Function, and Purpose
- Algorithm Development
- Errors and Testing
- Data and Procedural Abstraction
Students have access to their Personalized Project Reference while completing these responses.
All written responses are completed digitally in Bluebook.
Related AP Courses
Explore other AP courses that complement this course and can help you build a broader academic pathway based on your interests, strengths, and future college goals.
AP Computer Science A
Continue into more advanced programming through Java, object-oriented design, algorithms, and data structures.
AP Statistics
Develop skills in data analysis, probability, statistical inference, and interpreting real-world information.
AP Precalculus
Strengthen functions, modeling, algebra, and mathematical reasoning that support future computing and STEM coursework.
AP Seminar
Develop research, source evaluation, collaboration, argumentation, and presentation skills useful across technology and interdisciplinary fields.
Questions About AP Computer Science Principles
Where can I find official AP Computer Science Principles resources and exam details?
For the official course framework, Create Performance Task requirements, exam information, and student resources, visit the College Board AP Computer Science Principles page.
Do I need to know how to code before taking AP CSP?
No prior coding experience is required by College Board. Franklin Academy requires either an overall GPA of 3.5 or prior coding experience and expects students to have a solid first-year algebra foundation.
What is the Create Performance Task?
The Create Performance Task is a programming project completed during the course. Students develop a program, submit program code and a video, and create a Personalized Project Reference that they use during the written-response portion of the AP Exam.
Is the 2027 AP CSP Exam fully digital?
Yes. The May 2027 end-of-course exam, including both multiple-choice and written-response questions, is completed in Bluebook. The Create Performance Task itself is submitted separately through the AP Digital Portfolio.
Will I receive high school credit for taking this course?
Yes. Franklin Academy is a WASC-accredited private school. Upon completion of the course, Franklin Academy issues an official transcript with the WASC seal. Students may choose to transfer credits to their school of record or submit the Franklin Academy transcript as part of their college application materials.
Interested in Enrolling in AP Classes?
Franklin Academy offers a range of AP courses designed to help students strengthen their academic foundation, explore advanced subjects, and prepare for college-level coursework. Complete the form below and let us know which AP courses you’re interested in.