AP Coordinators, embrace coordination! Download Part 1 of the manual for essential guidance. It details roles, registration, and security protocols, ensuring a smooth AP experience.
What is the AP Coordinator Manual, Part 1?
The AP Coordinator Manual, Part 1, serves as a foundational resource for individuals managing the AP Program within their schools. This comprehensive guide details the core responsibilities of the AP Coordinator, encompassing exam registration, ordering procedures, and the crucial aspects of exam material handling – from receipt and secure storage to distribution and return.
It outlines the financial aspects, including fee collection and final payment submission. Furthermore, the manual emphasizes maintaining exam integrity and provides protocols for addressing potential security breaches. Essentially, it’s a vital tool for ensuring a successful and compliant AP Program implementation.
Accessing the Manual & Key Resources
AP Coordinators can readily access AP Coordinator Manual, Part 1 as a downloadable PDF directly from the AP Central website: https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/media/pdf/ap-coordinators-manual-part-1.pdf.
Enhance your expertise by registering for the AP Coordinator: Back-to-School Workshop (https://eventreg.collegeboard.org/5rYBGR) and connecting with peers via “Chat with a Coordinator” (https://eventreg.collegeboard.org/d/ykqhnd/) and the AP Coordinator Community (https://apcommunity.collegeboard.org/web/apcoordinators);

The Role of the AP Coordinator
AP Coordinators expertly manage exam processes – registration, ordering, security, and fee collection – ensuring a successful AP Program implementation for students and staff.
Core Responsibilities Overview
As the school’s AP Coordinator, a multifaceted role awaits! You’ll be central to managing the entire AP exam lifecycle. This includes meticulously overseeing exam registration and the accurate ordering process. Crucially, you’re responsible for the secure receipt, careful storage, and controlled distribution of all AP Exam materials.
Furthermore, diligent fee collection and the timely submission of final payments to the AP Program fall under your purview; Maintaining exam integrity and adhering to strict security protocols are paramount. Effectively, you are the key facilitator of a successful AP experience for your students.
Managing Exam Registration & Ordering
Efficient exam registration and ordering are cornerstones of the AP Coordinator’s role. Begin by creating and editing class sections accurately within the system. Thoroughly understand the AP Participation Form – its completion is vital for timely material shipment.
Pay close attention to key dates for ordering materials, differentiating between regular and late deadlines. Accurate record-keeping of student participation is essential. Finally, ensure a streamlined process for fee collection and the subsequent submission of final payments to the AP Program, adhering to all guidelines.
Receipt, Storage & Security of Exam Materials
Maintaining exam integrity is paramount. As the AP Coordinator, you are responsible for the secure receipt of all AP Exam materials. Implement robust storage procedures, ensuring a locked and monitored environment.
Strict adherence to security protocols is non-negotiable. Any potential security breach, no matter how minor, must be reported immediately. Detailed guidance on these procedures is available within AP Coordinator Manual, Part 1. Protecting the fairness and validity of the AP Program is your key responsibility.

AP Program Deadlines & Timelines
Key dates impact material ordering and bulletin distribution. Meeting the November 15 regular deadline ensures timely shipment of AP resources, as outlined in the manual.
Key Dates for Ordering Materials
AP Coordinators must be aware of crucial ordering deadlines to ensure timely exam delivery. The regular ordering deadline is November 15th. Schools with coordinators who electronically sign the AP Participation Form by this date will receive the AP Bulletin for Students and Parents, alongside AP Coordinator’s Manual, Part 2, in separate shipments.
Late ordering incurs additional fees and potentially delays exam material arrival. Understanding these timelines, detailed within the AP Coordinator Manual, Part 1, is paramount for successful exam administration. Proactive planning and adherence to these dates streamline the entire process.
AP Bulletin Distribution Timeline
The AP Program initiates the shipment of the Bulletin for AP Students and Parents alongside AP Coordinator’s Manual, Part 2, to schools. This distribution is contingent upon the school’s AP coordinator electronically submitting the AP Participation Form by the regular ordering deadline of November 15th.
This coordinated shipment ensures coordinators receive vital resources simultaneously. Timely submission is key to accessing these materials promptly. Refer to the AP Coordinator Manual, Part 1, for complete details and to confirm your school’s eligibility for this initial shipment.
Regular vs. Late Ordering Deadlines
Adhering to the November 15th regular ordering deadline is crucial for AP coordinators. Schools meeting this deadline receive the AP Bulletin for Students and Parents and the AP Coordinator’s Manual, Part 2, in a timely, coordinated shipment.
Late ordering incurs additional fees and delays material delivery. The AP Coordinator Manual, Part 1, details these penalties. Prioritize early submission of the AP Participation Form to avoid complications and ensure a seamless exam administration process for your students.

Navigating AP Central for Coordinators
AP Central offers a robust resource library, back-to-school workshops, and a vibrant coordinator community for support and updates. Explore these vital tools!
AP Coordinator Resource Library
AP Central’s Resource Library is a comprehensive hub designed to empower AP Coordinators. Within this library, you’ll discover a wealth of materials, including the AP Coordinators Manuals (Part 1 and Part 2), crucial for understanding program logistics and best practices.
It also houses detailed guides on exam administration, security protocols, and registration procedures. Furthermore, the library provides access to updated AP policies, exam-specific information, and helpful resources for communicating with students, parents, and school administrators. Regularly checking this library ensures you remain informed and prepared throughout the AP year.
Back-to-School Workshop Registration
Kickstart the AP year with the AP Coordinator: Back-to-School Workshop! This invaluable professional development opportunity provides a deep dive into program updates, best practices, and essential resources. Registration is now open – access it through the College Board event registration portal;
The workshop covers critical topics like exam ordering, security procedures, and navigating AP Central. Attending ensures you’re fully equipped to support your students and school effectively. Don’t miss this chance to connect with fellow coordinators and enhance your expertise!
Utilizing the AP Coordinator Community
Connect, collaborate, and learn from peers within the vibrant AP Coordinator Community! This online forum provides a dedicated space for AP professionals to share insights, ask questions, and troubleshoot challenges. Access the community through the AP Central website – it’s a powerful resource for ongoing support.
Engage in discussions, access archived resources, and benefit from the collective wisdom of experienced coordinators. It’s an excellent platform to stay informed about program updates and best practices, fostering a collaborative network for AP success.

Exam Ordering Process Details
The AP Coordinator’s Manual, Part 1, provides detailed guidance on creating and editing class sections, understanding the AP Participation Form, and managing fees.
Creating and Editing Class Sections
AP Coordinators must accurately establish class sections within the AP system. The AP Coordinators Manual, Part 1 (.pdf), offers comprehensive instructions for this crucial process. This involves defining each AP course offered at your school, ensuring correct course codes are utilized, and accurately reflecting student enrollment.
Carefully editing these sections is equally important, allowing for adjustments as student schedules evolve. Maintaining precise class lists is vital for accurate exam ordering and reporting. Refer to the manual for step-by-step guidance on navigating these functionalities within the AP Central platform.
Understanding the AP Participation Form
The AP Participation Form is a critical document for AP Coordinators. Electronically signing this form signifies your school’s commitment to participating in the AP Program. According to the AP Coordinators Manual, Part 1, timely submission by the November 15 regular ordering deadline ensures prompt shipment of essential materials, including the AP Bulletin for Students and Parents.
This form confirms your school’s intent to order AP exams. Understanding its requirements and completing it accurately is paramount for a successful AP program implementation.
Fee Collection and Final Payment Submission
As outlined in the AP Coordinators Manual, Part 1, a core responsibility of the AP Coordinator is managing fee collection. This involves establishing a clear process for gathering exam fees from students. Subsequently, the coordinator must submit a final payment to the AP Program, covering the total cost of ordered exams.
Accurate record-keeping and adherence to payment deadlines are crucial. Proper financial management ensures your school maintains good standing with the AP Program and avoids potential penalties.

Exam Security Protocols
AP Coordinators Manual, Part 1, emphasizes maintaining exam integrity through secure storage and strict adherence to protocols. Report any breaches immediately!
Maintaining Exam Integrity
AP Coordinators play a vital role in upholding the integrity of the AP Program. The AP Coordinators Manual, Part 1, stresses the importance of strict adherence to security protocols throughout the entire exam process. This includes careful handling of all exam materials, from receipt to return, and diligent supervision during administration.
Protecting the confidentiality of exam questions is paramount. Coordinators must ensure secure storage, limiting access only to authorized personnel; Any suspected security breaches, no matter how minor, must be reported immediately to the College Board to maintain the fairness and validity of the AP exams.
Secure Storage Procedures
The AP Coordinators Manual, Part 1, outlines stringent secure storage procedures for all AP Exam materials. Upon receipt, exams must be locked in a secure location with limited access – ideally a double-locked room or a safe. Detailed records of access should be maintained.
Storage areas must be free from environmental hazards and unauthorized individuals. Coordinators are responsible for ensuring the physical security of the exams at all times, preventing any potential compromise. Following these procedures is crucial for maintaining exam integrity and fairness.
Reporting Security Breaches
The AP Coordinators Manual, Part 1, emphasizes the critical importance of immediately reporting any suspected or confirmed security breaches. This includes compromised exam materials, unauthorized access to secure storage, or any irregularities during the exam administration process.
Contact the AP Program’s security hotline without delay. Detailed documentation of the incident is essential, including dates, times, individuals involved, and a description of the breach. Prompt reporting allows for swift investigation and mitigation of potential issues, safeguarding the integrity of the AP Program.

Communication & Collaboration
Stay informed via the AP Coordinator Newsletter! Connect with peers through “Chat with a Coordinator” and the AP Coordinator Community for support.
AP Coordinator Newsletter Updates
AP Coordinator Newsletters deliver crucial, timely information directly to you. These monthly updates cover vital program changes, important deadlines, and helpful resources.
Ensure your district’s AP Coordinators have current contact details to receive these essential communications. The newsletter serves as a primary channel for disseminating updates regarding exam ordering, security protocols, and policy adjustments.
Regularly reviewing the newsletter will keep you and your team well-prepared and informed throughout the AP program cycle, maximizing success for your students.
Connecting with Colleagues – Chat with a Coordinator
AP Coordinators, leverage the power of peer support! “Chat with a Coordinator” provides a valuable platform to connect with fellow professionals facing similar challenges.
This dedicated forum allows for real-time discussion, quick problem-solving, and the sharing of best practices. Access this resource via the College Board event registration system to engage with experienced coordinators.
Benefit from collective wisdom, gain insights into effective strategies, and build a supportive network within the AP community. Registration is available through the provided link.
District-Level Coordination
Effective AP program management thrives on strong district-level coordination. Ensure all AP coordinators within your district are informed and aligned on key procedures and deadlines.
Regular communication is crucial; remind coordinators to verify their contact information to receive the monthly AP Coordinator Newsletter. This newsletter delivers vital updates regarding policies, procedures, and important announcements.
Facilitate collaborative planning to streamline exam ordering, security protocols, and fee collection, fostering a cohesive and successful AP program across the district.

Fall Registration Implementation
Fall registration offers compelling results, mirroring pilot program successes. Transitioning streamlines processes and enhances efficiency for both coordinators and students, simplifying AP participation.
Benefits of Fall Registration
Fall registration presents significant advantages for AP coordinators and students alike. Implementing this system early allows for more accurate forecasting of exam orders, minimizing potential shortages or overages. This proactive approach streamlines the logistical aspects of exam administration, reducing stress during peak periods.
Furthermore, early registration provides students with ample time to prepare, potentially leading to improved performance. The pilot program demonstrated compelling results, highlighting increased student engagement and a smoother overall AP experience. It’s a win-win for everyone involved!
Pilot Program Results
The AP Program’s fall registration pilot program yielded remarkably positive outcomes, solidifying the decision to expand this option. Schools participating in the pilot reported a noticeable decrease in late registration issues and ordering discrepancies. This streamlined process allowed coordinators to focus on supporting students rather than resolving administrative hurdles.
Compelling results indicated improved student preparation and a more organized exam administration process. The data clearly demonstrated that early registration fosters a more efficient and effective AP experience for all stakeholders.
Transitioning to Fall Registration
The shift to fall registration represents a significant enhancement to the AP Program’s administrative processes. AP Coordinators should familiarize themselves with the updated timelines and procedures outlined in Part 1 of the manual. This proactive approach ensures a seamless transition for both coordinators and students.
Resources, including webinars and FAQs, are available on AP Central to support this change. Embracing fall registration will ultimately lead to a more organized and efficient AP exam season, benefiting everyone involved.

Understanding AP Program Updates
Stay informed! AP Central details changes to exam formats, new course offerings, and policy updates – all crucial for AP Coordinators to review.
Changes to Exam Formats
AP Coordinators must remain vigilant regarding exam format modifications. The AP Program consistently evolves to maintain relevance and rigor. These changes can encompass alterations to question types, scoring guidelines, or even the overall exam structure.
It’s vital to disseminate this information to both teachers and students promptly. The AP Coordinator’s Manual, Part 1, and AP Central provide detailed updates. Familiarizing yourself with these changes ensures proper preparation and minimizes confusion during exam administration. Proactive communication is key to a successful AP Program implementation.
New AP Course Offerings
AP Coordinators play a crucial role in introducing new course offerings to their schools. The AP Program regularly expands its curriculum to meet evolving educational needs and student interests. Staying informed about these additions is paramount for broadening academic opportunities.
The AP Coordinator’s Manual, Part 1, details any new courses, including syllabus requirements and available resources. Careful consideration should be given to teacher availability and student demand before implementing a new AP course. Thorough planning ensures a successful launch and maximizes student participation.
Updates to AP Policies and Procedures
AP policies and procedures are subject to periodic updates to maintain program integrity and fairness. AP Coordinators must remain vigilant in understanding these changes, as they directly impact exam administration and student eligibility. The AP Coordinator’s Manual, Part 1, serves as the primary source for this information.
Updates may concern exam security, student accommodations, or fee structures. Disseminating this knowledge to teachers and students is vital. Regularly checking AP Central ensures access to the most current guidelines, preventing potential compliance issues and fostering a smooth AP Program experience.

Troubleshooting Common Issues
The AP Coordinator’s Manual, Part 1, offers solutions for registration problems, ordering discrepancies, and exam material issues, ensuring a seamless AP season.
Addressing Registration Problems
AP registration can present challenges. The AP Coordinator Manual, Part 1, is your first resource for resolving student registration issues. Confirm student information accuracy within the system, verifying names and school affiliations.
If a student isn’t appearing, double-check their initial registration status and ensure proper data submission. For technical glitches, utilize the AP Central support resources. Remember to document all issues and resolutions for future reference, maintaining clear communication with students and parents throughout the process.
Resolving Ordering Discrepancies
Ordering errors can occur. Refer to the AP Coordinator’s Manual, Part 1, for guidance on rectifying discrepancies. First, meticulously compare your initial order with the final invoice, noting any differences in exam numbers or course selections.
Contact AP Central support immediately to report any issues. Provide your school code and order details for swift resolution. Accurate record-keeping is crucial; document all communication and adjustments made to the order. Timely action minimizes delays and ensures students receive the correct materials.
Handling Exam Material Issues
The AP Coordinator’s Manual, Part 1, outlines procedures for addressing exam material concerns. Upon receipt, immediately verify the shipment against the packing slip, noting any shortages or damages. Report discrepancies to AP Central promptly, providing detailed documentation—photos are helpful!
Securely store all materials, maintaining exam integrity. If issues arise during exam administration (e.g., damaged booklets), follow established protocols for reporting and requesting replacements. Accurate inventory management is key to a smooth exam process.