AP Macroeconomics
Course Information
AP Macroeconomics is a college-level course that introduces students to the principles that apply to an economic system as a whole.
Subject Area: Social Science / Economics
UC A-G Area: G – College-Preparatory Elective
Course Level: Advanced Placement
Open Terms: Summer & Fall
Enrollment Information
Course Start: 9/15/2026
Course End: 12/22/2027
Class Mode: Onsite/Online
Enrollment Period: 5/1/2026-8/30/2026
Related College Majors
This course provides useful preparation for many quantitative, business, and social science college pathways, including:
Economics / Business Administration / Finance / Accounting / Public Policy / International Relations / Statistics / Applied Mathematics / Data Science
Prerequisites
Students should have:
- A 3.5 GPA or higher
- Pre-AP English preparation is recommended
Students should also be able to read a college-level textbook and possess basic mathematics and graphing skills.
Course Units
- Basic Economic Concepts
- Economic Indicators and the Business Cycle
- National Income and Price Determination
- Financial Sector
- Long-Run Consequences of Stabilization Policies
- Open Economy—International Trade and Finance
Comparison Table
2027 AP Exam Information
Exam Date: May 7, 2027 | Exam Duration: 2 Hours 10 Minutes
Section I
Multiple Choice
- 60 questions
- 1 Hour 10 Minutes
- 66% of Score
Students answer questions that require them to define economic principles and models, explain economic outcomes, determine the results of specific economic situations, and interpret economic graphs and models.
Calculators are permitted on the exam.
Section II
Free Responses
- 3 questions
- 1 Hour
- 33% of Score
- Includes a 10-minute reading period
The section includes:
- 1 long free-response question
- 2 short free-response questions
Students may be asked to explain economic relationships, draw or interpret graphs, calculate economic values, and analyze changes in economic conditions.
Free-response questions are viewed in Bluebook, while answers are handwritten in the provided exam booklet.
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 Statistics
Develop skills in collecting, analyzing, interpreting, and drawing conclusions from real-world data.
AP Microeconomics
Examine how consumers, producers, markets, and government policies influence economic decision-making.
AP U.S. Government and Politics
Explore political institutions, public policy, constitutional principles, and political participation in the United States.
AP Calculus AB
Build a foundation in differential and integral calculus and strengthen quantitative problem-solving skills.
Questions About AP Macroeconomics
Where can I find official AP Macroeconomics resources and exam details?
For the official course framework, exam information, calculator policies, and student resources, visit the College Board AP Macroeconomics page.
Is AP Macroeconomics heavily math-based?
AP Macroeconomics does not require advanced calculus, but students should be comfortable with basic mathematics, percentages, graph interpretation, and quantitative reasoning. Much of the course involves understanding how economic variables relate to one another through models and graphs.
Should I take AP Microeconomics or AP Macroeconomics first?
Either course can be taken first. Both begin with foundational economic concepts, but they examine economics at different scales. AP Microeconomics focuses on individual consumers, firms, and markets, while AP Macroeconomics focuses on national and global economic systems.
What college course is AP Macroeconomics equivalent to?
College Board describes AP Macroeconomics as equivalent to a one-semester introductory college course in macroeconomics.
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.