One hundred twenty-five Rye High School students had just sat down to take their AP Psychology test at noon on May 16 when there was a big problem.
No one could get into the system.
The College Board, which administers the test, explained later that a nationwide software glitch had prevented students from signing into the test-taking application.
The problem was fixed by 1:45 p.m., but by then it was too late for Rye — and many other schools — to offer the test. Now students will have to return to take the test on May 28, 12 days after they originally were supposed to and a week-and-a-half after the end of normal AP testing.
“It’s unfortunate, and we wish it didn’t happen, but it was out of our control,” said Mark Bayer, interim assistant principal. “The kids were getting antsy, we were on hold with the College Board for 45 minutes. Once we found out the problem was widespread, we decided to cancel the test.”
He added, “Our hope is that if students were prepared for May 16, they’ll do well” on May 28.
By that time, RHS seniors will be well into their senior internships. Other students will be back to managing their coursework, finishing papers and projects, and preparing for other exams.
The College Board has alternate test dates, in case “something unexpected happens that prevents [students] from taking the AP exam,” according to the “Late Testing” page on its website.
Psychology was the last test of AP exam season, so it has the latest makeup date.
