AP United States HistoryBest courses
Summary: Best AP U.S. History prep resources (2026 - 2027)
For high school students seeking an academic challenge and a pathway to earn college credit, enrolling in Advanced Placement courses is a rewarding decision. AP U.S. History is one of the most widely recognized and accepted AP courses at universities nationwide, enabling students to fulfill college-level social science requirements while exploring the foundations of U.S. history and government. The APUSH curriculum introduces learners to major historical events, influential figures, and broad themes that continue to define our country's identity, society, and politics. The course is structured to cover important historical periods, from colonial America and the Revolutionary era to the dynamic movements for civil rights.
Upon completing the AP U.S. History course, students take the rigorous three-hour AP U.S. History exam, which assesses mastery of a wide range of historical topics. Excelling on the APUSH test requires students to synthesize historical data, interpret documents, connect events to significant trends, and explain the far-reaching impacts of social and cultural change. Achieving a score of 3 is often sufficient for college credit at many institutions, but many participants strive for 4 or 5 on AP U.S. History to maximize their credit transfer opportunities. As they prepare, students routinely use additional materials, such as those offered by the College Board and respected third-party publishers, to reinforce what they've learned in class.
Effective preparation is crucial for success in APUSH, whether you're currently enrolled or planning to take the exam soon. Each APUSH prep provider listed below offers distinct advantages, ranging from detailed study guides and adaptive practice questions to engaging video tutorials to maximize readiness. Real student feedback is included to help you compare The Princeton Review, AMSCO, Heimler's History, and Crash Course, ensuring you can confidently choose resources tailored to your goals, whether you're an aspiring historian or simply interested in deepening your understanding of the U.S.'s development.
Some user reviews have been slightly edited for length and clarity.
How we evaluated these resources
Our top APUSH study guide recommendations are carefully curated to address a wide range of study needs, providing flexible resources for every schedule and level of content mastery. Whether you're seeking a self-paced textbook or an interactive program featuring personal tutoring, each option was chosen for its ability to elevate your exam preparation. We chose our selections based on:
- Cost
- We assess each APUSH study guide provider's value across price points, offering both budget-friendly and premium options to suit different financial needs.
- Resource variety
- The best study materials go beyond standard manuals, offering valuable extras such as flashcards, diagnostic practice tests, and digital learning tools to create a complete, well-rounded study experience.
- Exam coverage
- Some materials are designed for comprehensive exam prep, while others excel at targeted reviews if you're stumped by a specific historical period or theme.
- Accessibility
- Leading guides and courses present complex concepts clearly and accessibly. We prioritize supplementary materials and courseware that support diverse learning styles, ensuring high retention and understanding for every student.
- Community feedback
- We incorporate feedback from students and educators who recommend specific APUSH study guides and vendors. Their insights reveal what makes instructional resources, practice questions, and exam strategies most effective.
- Score improvement
- Each recommended resource is evaluated not only for its ability to help students pass but also for its capacity to help learners achieve top scores within their desired timeframe.
Achieving success on the AP U.S. History exam requires building critical thinking and analytical skills that extend beyond memorization. Selecting the right APUSH study guide means choosing resources that nurture these advanced abilities while delivering core content, which can be the difference between earning a 3 or a 5.
For each provider, our analysis highlights key features, pros and cons, and standout aspects of their APUSH study tools, making it simple to find the resource that best matches your learning goals. Use our recommendations below to make an informed decision and improve your performance.
Most variety: Princeton Review
- The Princeton Review offers a range of test-prep resources for the most popular AP courses, from their best-selling printed study guides to expert tutoring to limited-run "crash courses."
- Princeton Review's books have been a long-relied-upon resource for AP preparation. Students appreciate Princeton's focus on high-yield topics, which makes its resources well-suited for reviewing class content.
- The book offers a strong balance of comprehensive exam coverage, focused practice assessments, and clear, concise content summaries
- Students appreciate Princeton Review's in-depth explanations for every question, which help reinforce understanding of social science subjects
- Flexible options are available for students who only need self-assessments and those seeking one-on-one support
- Higher-tier packages include access to prep resources for additional AP subjects, ideal for students preparing for multiple exams
- AP 4 Course Live Online is pricey, especially since the course curriculum follows Princeton Review's much less expensive book
- AP tutoring is also costly at over $200 per hour
- Some students felt the Princeton Review book was overly detailed and that practice exams were not fully reflective of the actual test
- 6 full-length practice exams (3 in the book, 3 online)
- Timed online practice
- Test-taking tips and strategies
- List of key terms and concepts
- Study plans
- AP 4 and Cram Course offers live online instruction
- AP 4 and tutoring options come with a score guarantee (4 for course, 5 for tutoring)
From live online courses to comprehensive self-study materials, The Princeton Review APUSH program offers a full array of resources for AP U.S. History exam preparation. As one of the most recognized names among AP study options, the *Princeton Review AP U.S. History Premium Prep* book stands out as their flagship offering, providing a well-rounded, all-in-one solution for students. This guide covers every major topic and era included on the exam, delivering structured lessons that clearly explain the key periods, themes, and historical concepts tested.
Most versions of the APUSH Premium Prep book include six full-length, practice exams with detailed answer explanations. These practice tests, available in print and online, mirror the real exam's timing and formats, helping students get comfortable under test conditions. At the end of each chapter, targeted drills reinforce learning and key concepts. In addition, online tools such as digital flashcards, customizable study plans, lists of key terms, and diagnostic assessments help pinpoint and improve weak areas. Expert tips throughout the Princeton Review's materials guide students in mastering multiple-choice questions, short-answer responses, document-based questions (DBQs), and long essays.
Content for Princeton Review's resources is developed by experienced Advanced Placement educators and fully aligned to the current digital AP U.S. History exam. This ensures students know what to expect on test day and keeps all their reviews up to date with College Board standards. The trusted printed study guide is also central to related course offerings: their live online classes, one-on-one tutoring, and self-paced study programs are all tailored to provide additional structure for students who need it. For those preparing in the final weeks, the "Cram Course" pulls together critical content and strategic review methods to increase study efficiency and boost last-minute results.
While Princeton Review gives APUSH students many study paths, including premium-priced classes and extensive tutoring, many find that the core printed study guide delivers the best return on investment compared to more expensive options. However, some feedback suggests that portions of the content may at times exceed the actual APUSH exam scope, and that certain practice tests can differ in content and difficulty from the real College Board version.
“I found that Princeton Review was great for [history-related subjects] (APUSH, World, Gov).”
“I also had Princeton Review and didn't think it was that good. Some of the info was beyond the scope of the exam (which made the practice exams not representative of the actual exam).”
Bottom line: Princeton Review's books remain among the most widely used resources for AP exam preparation in social studies and humanities subjects. Unless you require personalized support, we recommend looking into their study guide to avoid unnecessary costs.
Best textbook: AMSCO
- AMSCO has a series of pioneering AP books mainly focused on history and other social science topics. This standardized text is designed to closely mirror the APUSH Course and Exam Description (CED).
- The book is approachable enough to be used as a supplement to in-class learning and rigorous enough to be used as a self-study tool.
- Comprehensive, expertly crafted course content developed by vetted subject matter experts
- By following the latest edition of the book from start to finish, students will cover all the material likely to appear on the exam
- Practice questions are integrated throughout the textbook, offering consistent opportunities to apply knowledge and build familiarity
- Student edition only comes with one practice exam
- Limited additional study tools
- May be too detailed for students looking for quick reviews
- Like other printed materials, be sure you're purchasing the latest, most up-to-date edition
- Writing tips for effective answers
- Multiple-choice and free-response question practice
- Unit reviews and key takeaways for each section
AMSCO's *Advanced Placement U.S. History* is a top choice for students seeking top-rated review and exam preparation. Widely recognized and trusted by both teachers and students, AMSCO APUSH guides learners through U.S. history from pre-Columbian times to the present, organized into 9 chronological periods that align with the official AP U.S. History curriculum. The text emphasizes major events, historical themes, and the critical thinking skills needed to score well on the test. Each chapter is carefully organized with concise narrative explanations, a clear thematic structure, and features such as Historical Perspectives that highlight how historians interpret important issues.
Beyond content review, AMSCO's text is designed to help students develop key writing and analytical skills essential for the APUSH exam's essay sections. Many editions of the textbook include chapter reviews with key terms, significant people, and major events, organized by theme. The book's straightforward explanations and manageable pacing make it perfect for both classroom instruction and independent APUSH review, while its alignment with AP exam requirements ensures that all periods and core dynamics are thoroughly covered.
According to student feedback and online reviews, AMSCO APUSH is an effective primary resource for self-study or a supplemental textbook alongside classroom learning and other exam-prep materials. However, keep in mind that *Advanced Placement U.S. History* is not a review book: students looking for extra practice questions or drill-based resources may want to supplement with additional materials.
“AMSCO is really good. My teacher told us to get it for AP World last year, and it was the only book we used all year, and it got me a 5. It has practice SAQs for each chapter and a practice exam as well. We're using it again this year as well for APUSH.”
“The AMSCO can be used as a review book, but it is essentially a textbook with the MOST important information and some key details that aren't even found in some textbooks or review books…Of course, it is best to supplement the AMSCO with another prep book in April as you prepare for the test.”
Bottom line: AMSCO's APUSH textbook is a detailed resource that has empowered countless students, especially independent learners, to gain a deep understanding of U.S. history. For anyone seeking a trusted textbook producer for learning history, AMSCO remains a favorite.
For accessible and engaging online content: Heimler's History
- Steve Heimler has built a strong reputation as a student-approved online instructor for AP Government, U.S. History, and other social science courses, thanks to his energetic and engaging video lessons.
- In addition to his free YouTube content, Heimler offers review guides, notes, and teacher resources through his official website.
- Hundreds of videos that use real-life examples, easy-to-follow explanations, and humor to break down complex topics
- Specific focus on the APUSH exam, complete with proven test-taking tips and strategies
- Video NoteGuides can be used to follow along with YouTube videos through multiple-choice quizzes for each topic and writing prompts
- APUSH Heimler Review Guide comes with 2 full-length practice exams
- While useful for refreshers or nailing concepts learned in class, Heimler's History is best used as a supplemental tool
- Teacher resources and additional study aids are not complimentary
- Review Guide comes with 9 unit review videos, notes, thematic timelines, and practice questions
- Heimler Essay Cram Course breaks down point structures for essays and writing skills resources
Heimler's History is an educational platform created by AP history teacher Steve Heimler, specifically designed to help students excel in Advanced Placement history courses and exams. Heimler's History provides in-depth preparation for AP U.S. History (APUSH), AP World History, AP European History, and AP Government by delivering engaging review resources and expert instruction tailored to the AP curriculum. Through Heimler's History YouTube videos, students receive clear, concise explanations of essential historical events, major themes, and critical trends, making even the most complex AP topics more accessible and memorable.
In addition to the popular video lessons, Heimler's History also offers a range of paid review guides and targeted study materials. These resources include unit note guides with answer keys, an extensive collection of practice multiple-choice questions, full-length practice exams, and detailed strategies for writing AP essays, including DBQs (Document-Based Questions) and LEQs (Long Essay Questions). Each Heimler's History guide is crafted to align with the AP exam format, offering practical tools that go beyond video content to provide a holistic study experience. The hallmark of the platform is its combination of focused content review and proven exam strategies, drawing on Mr. Heimler's experience as both a classroom teacher and an AP exam reader to help students prioritize what matters most for achieving top scores.
While Heimler's History is highly valued for its accessible teaching approach and test-focused content, students should use these resources as supplements to thorough classroom instruction rather than as standalone courses. Many learners utilize these videos to reinforce foundational concepts or to preview new material before diving deeper in class, maximizing their understanding and retention.
“Heimler's review packet was my saving grace for the AP exam. Didn't have time to binge every one of his vids, and the review packet gave a comprehensive review with study guides to follow…But keep in mind it's a review tool, not a learning tool.”
“I find his YouTube is most helpful when learning how to answer DBQ/SEQ/LEQ…but I feel like his videos don't cover all the material my teacher covered or in enough detail.”
Bottom line: Heimler's History stands out as a premier free online video library for APUSH exam preparation and broader AP history studies. Frequently recommended by both teachers and students for its approachable style and high-impact content, Heimler remains a trusted resource for anyone aiming to succeed on AP exams.
Bonus video content: CrashCourse U.S. History
- CrashCourse is a widely followed video series known for its engaging, fast-paced content across a range of subjects. Their U.S. History series, taught by John Green, aligns closely with the AP course framework.
- Students frequently describe the videos as an invaluable resource for reinforcing key concepts and helping them make meaningful connections that strengthen retention.
- Library of nearly 50 videos makes it effective and enjoyable to learn key terms, explore major historical events, and study influential figures
- Concepts are broken down with plain language and popular references, bringing dense material to life in an engaging way
- Although helpful, CrashCourse videos aren't a substitute for a full study program
- The course is based on the 2013 AP framework, making it less current than other available resources
Crash Course U.S. History is a free, video-based educational series that provides a dynamic overview of American history, making it especially valuable for students preparing for the AP exam. Crash Course U.S. History delivers engaging and easy-to-follow episodes that cover the key events, themes, and developments from pre-colonial America through the 20th century and beyond. Hosted primarily by celebrated author John Green on the Crash Course YouTube channel, the comprehensive U.S. History playlist features dozens of tightly organized, 10-15-minute videos that closely align with the AP U.S. History curriculum.
Crash Course U.S. History stands out for its clear visuals, storytelling, and chronological structure, helping learners understand major U.S. historical narratives and concepts. As an AP exam prep resource, it serves as an excellent supplementary review tool, reinforcing classroom instruction, aiding in content retention, and helping students grasp the "big picture" before delving into textbooks and practice materials. The fast-paced, informal format makes Crash Course ideal for initial reviews, quick unit refreshers, or last-minute concept reinforcement. While these videos are a favorite among teachers and students for their accessibility and clarity, they should be complemented by more structured AP-aligned practice, such as timed multiple-choice questions and essay writing, to ensure full exam readiness.
“It's a fantastic resource. For me at least, the pace was a little too fast to use as a primary study tool, but it was helpful for solidifying info I had studied from other sources.”
“[CrashCourse videos] are good as long as they're not the only thing you use to study. They go through everything fast, but it's helpful in just hearing and visualizing the vocab.”
Bottom line: Crash Course U.S. History has become a go-to study aid for AP U.S. History students seeking concise, topic-focused videos to enhance understanding and memory of key historical periods. Many learners and educators recommend integrating Crash Course alongside books and resources as part of a comprehensive study plan for APUSH success.
Why it matters
A wide range of APUSH exam prep providers offer comprehensive study materials and dedicated student support that promise to help you excel on the final test. Enrolling in APUSH, along with other Advanced Placement courses, presents students with an excellent opportunity to:
- Showcase academic achievement and subject mastery to colleges
- Build advanced analytical and rhetorical skills
- Earn college credit or bypass introductory undergraduate history classes
- Approach the study of American history as historians and academics do, pushing students beyond standard high school expectations
Supplementing your classroom learning with an APUSH study guide, additional practice tests, or even a complete prep course can significantly boost your final AP test score. Dedicating time each week to focused APUSH exam preparation, especially in the weeks before test day, helps you strengthen test-taking techniques, reinforce key historical concepts, and apply your knowledge effectively. With a well-structured study schedule and the right study program, you'll be well-prepared to achieve a top score on the AP U.S. History exam.
Wrapping up
Selecting the right AP U.S. History exam prep program can make or break your exam score goals. High-quality APUSH resources, expertly crafted practice tests, and reliable study guidance can greatly enhance your preparation for the final test. As you compare leading APUSH review courses and study programs, be sure to carefully evaluate features, content accuracy, pricing, and each resource's proven effectiveness. Look for an APUSH study guide or review course that matches your learning style and supports in-depth historical analysis, going beyond memorization to help you truly understand key events and themes in American history.
By choosing AP U.S. History study materials with targeted review sections and expert-written instruction, you will significantly improve your readiness for the exam. Aligning your prep with your needs will make test prep not only more effective but also more engaging and manageable. Best of luck!