📈 2024 AP Macroeconomics: U.S. vs International Exam Comparison

How did the 2024 AP Macroeconomics exam differ between the U.S. and International versions? While both tested core macroeconomic concepts, the International version leaned more heavily into applied reasoning and layered policy logic. Here’s a breakdown for students preparing for 2025 — and teachers curating region-aware study plans.

✅ What Was the Same

• 📝 Format: 60 Multiple Choice + 3 FRQs (1 long, 2 short)
• 📚 Shared Core Topics: AS/AD, Phillips Curve, GDP, inflation, fiscal and monetary policy
• 🧠 Required Skills: Diagram interpretation, cause/effect chains, policy justification

🔍 Key Differences

🌍 Regional Takeaways

The U.S. paper focused more on clean applications of standard models and graphs — solid preparation was rewarded with predictable question styles. In contrast, the International version demanded deeper synthesis across models, especially involving trade, interest rates, and money supply reasoning.

🎯 2025 Prep Advice

• All students: Prioritize AD/AS logic, real vs nominal, and FRQ structure
• U.S. testers: Focus on timing + clean graph use with policy ID
• Intl testers: Drill multi-step logic involving currency + interest flows

“Both versions test macro thinking — but the International paper tests how you connect the dots.”

📘 Must-Have Practice

• 2024 MCQs U.S. + Intl with solutions
• College Board AP Macro page
• ACDC Econ: Advanced FRQ drills