AP English Language and Composition
Course Information
AP English Language and Composition is a college-level English course focused on rhetoric, argument, and nonfiction writing.
Subject Area: English
UC A-G Area: B – English
Course Level: Advanced Placement
Open Terms: Summer & Fall
Enrollment Information
Course Start: 9/10/2026
Course End: 4/30/2027
Class Mode: Onsite/Online
Enrollment Period: 5/1/2026-8/30/2026
Related College Majors
This course provides useful preparation for nearly every college pathway, with particular relevance to:
English / Communications / Pre-Law / Journalism / Public Relations / Political Science / History / Marketing / Education
Prerequisites
Students should:
- Earn an A or B in Honors English, or an A in College Prep English
Students should also be prepared for substantial nonfiction reading, close textual analysis, evidence-based writing, revision, and timed essays.
Course Units
- Rhetorical Analysis and Claims
- Evidence and Organization
- Perspectives and Argument
- Methods of Development
- Reasoning and Structure
- Position, Perspective, and Bias
- Complexity in Argument
- Style and Rhetorical Choices
- Synthesis and Advanced Argument
Comparison Table
2027 AP Exam Information
Exam Date: May 12, 2027 | Exam Duration: 3 Hours 15 Minutes
Section I
Multiple Choice
- 45 questions
- 1 Hour
- 45% of Score
The section includes five sets of questions:
- 23–25 Reading Questions
- 20–22 Writing Questions
Reading questions ask students to analyze nonfiction texts, while writing questions ask students to evaluate and revise passages from a writer’s perspective.
All responses are completed digitally in Bluebook.
Section II
Free Response
- 3 questions
- 2 Hours 15 Minutes
- 55% of Score
- Includes a 15-minute reading period
The section includes:
- Synthesis Essay
- Rhetorical Analysis Essay
- Argument Essay
Synthesis Essay
Students read six sources on a topic, including visual or quantitative material, and develop an argument that uses and cites evidence from at least three sources.
Rhetorical Analysis Essay
Students analyze a nonfiction passage and explain how the writer’s rhetorical choices contribute to the text’s meaning and purpose.
Argument Essay
Students develop an evidence-based argument in response to a given topic or claim.
All essays are written and submitted 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 English Literature and Composition
Develop deeper literary analysis skills through fiction, poetry, drama, and evidence-based interpretation.
AP Seminar
Apply research, source evaluation, argumentation, collaboration, and presentation skills to interdisciplinary academic and real-world topics.
AP U.S. History
Strengthen source analysis and evidence-based historical argument while studying the development of the United States.
AP World History: Modern
Develop historical reasoning, source analysis, and argumentative writing while studying global developments from 1200 to the present.
Questions About AP English Language and Composition
Where can I find official AP English Language resources and exam details?
For the official course framework, exam information, scoring rubrics, practice resources, and student guidance, visit the College Board AP English Language and Composition page.
What is the difference between AP English Language and AP English Literature?
AP English Language focuses primarily on nonfiction, rhetoric, argument, and evidence-based writing. AP English Literature focuses on analyzing fiction, poetry, drama, and literary techniques.
Is the 2027 AP English Language Exam fully digital?
Yes. Both the multiple-choice and free-response sections are completed in Bluebook, and all responses are submitted digitally.
What kinds of writing will I do in AP English Language?
Students practice several forms of academic and analytical writing, with particular emphasis on synthesis, rhetorical analysis, and evidence-based argument.
What college course is AP English Language equivalent to?
College Board describes the course as an introductory college-level English course focused on analysis and evidence-based writing. The exact credit or course equivalency awarded depends on the college or university.
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.