Physics Regents Exam 2026: Complete Guide, Dates & Prep Tips
Master Physical Setting/Physics | 2026 Exam Dates, Mechanics, Electricity & Magnetism, Waves & Expert Strategies
NEXT EXAM DATE
January 21, 2026
TOTAL QUESTIONS
~85 Questions
EXAM DURATION
3 Hours
PASSING SCORE
65/100
What is the Physics Regents Exam?
The Physical Setting/Physics Regents Examination is a standardized science assessment administered by the New York State Education Department (NYSED) that measures student mastery of the Physics Core Curriculum. Typically taken in 11th or 12th grade, it tests mechanics, energy, electricity & magnetism, waves, optics, and modern physics, serving as both a course assessment and graduation requirement.
🎯 Key Facts About Physics Regents
- Purpose: Graduation requirement and assessment of physics knowledge for NY State students
- Administered by: New York State Education Department (NYSED)
- Typically taken: 11th or 12th grade after completing one year of Physics
- Duration: 3 hours (180 minutes)
- Questions: Approximately 85 questions worth 85 total points in cluster format
- Calculator: Scientific calculator permitted (graphing calculator allowed)
- Reference Tables: Comprehensive reference booklet provided with formulas, constants, and equations
📊 Why Physics Regents Matters
Science Requirement: Fulfills one of the required science Regents exams for graduation (alternative to Chemistry or Earth Science).
College Preparation: Essential foundation for engineering, pre-med, computer science, physics, and all STEM majors at university.
Advanced Diploma: Required for Regents Diploma with Advanced Designation, demonstrating strong quantitative and analytical skills.
2026 Physics Regents Exam Dates
The Physics Regents exam is offered three times per year. Below are the official 2026 administration dates from NYSED:
January 2026 Administration
Wednesday, January 21, 2026
Time: 12:00 PM (Noon) / Afternoon Session
Uniform Admission Deadline: 2:00 PM
Note: Restricted form only (special handling required)
Best for: Students retaking the exam or those who completed Physics in fall semester
June 2026 Early Administration
Wednesday, June 10, 2026 (Early Testing)
Time: 1:15 PM / Afternoon Session
Uniform Admission Deadline: 2:00 PM
Note: Conversion chart available by June 26, 2026
Best for: Students with scheduling conflicts on regular June date
June 2026 Regular Administration
Thursday, June 25, 2026 ⭐ MOST COMMON
Time: 9:15 AM / Morning Session (Note: 8:00 AM at some schools)
Uniform Admission Deadline: 10:00 AM
Best for: Most students completing Physics during the regular school year (first-time test takers)
August 2026 Administration
August 2026 (Date TBD - typically mid-August)
Time: TBD (typically morning session)
Note: Check NYSED website for exact August date
Best for: Students retaking the exam or those who took summer Physics
⚠️ Important Exam Day Reminders
- Confirm with your school the exact reporting time and location
- Arrive 20-30 minutes early for check-in and setup
- Required materials: Scientific or graphing calculator, pencils, pen, metric ruler, protractor
- Reference tables provided: Do not bring your own - you'll receive an official copy with the exam
Physics Regents Exam Format & Structure
The Physics Regents consists of approximately 85 questions worth 85 total points organized into question clusters. Unlike traditional exams, questions are grouped by themes/phenomena with interconnected storylines.
📋 Question Cluster Format
What are Question Clusters?
Question clusters are groups of questions (both multiple-choice and constructed-response) organized around a central phenomenon or real-world scenario. Each cluster includes:
- An introduction explaining the phenomenon
- Multiple stimuli (passages, data tables, graphs, diagrams, photos)
- Several interconnected questions drawing on the stimuli
- Mix of multiple-choice and constructed-response questions
Multiple-Choice Questions
1 point each
Test understanding of concepts, formulas, and data interpretation within clusters
Constructed-Response Questions
1-3 points each
Require calculations, explanations, diagrams, and detailed written responses
📝 What to Expect on the Exam
- Approximately 85 total questions (exact number may vary slightly by cluster design)
- Each question worth 1 point (some constructed-response may be 2-3 points)
- Total raw score: 85 points converted to scaled score 0-100
- Time limit: 3 hours (180 minutes)
- Question distribution: ~60% multiple-choice, ~40% constructed-response
✍️ Constructed-Response Expectations
Show ALL work: Write formulas, substitute values with units, solve step-by-step, circle final answer
Include units: All numerical answers must have proper units (m/s, N, J, W, etc.)
Draw diagrams: Free-body diagrams, circuit diagrams, ray diagrams must be clear and labeled
Explain reasoning: Write complete sentences explaining physics concepts when asked
📚 Reference Tables for Physical Setting/Physics
You receive a comprehensive Reference Tables booklet with every Physics Regents exam containing:
Mechanics Formulas:
- Kinematics equations
- Newton's Laws formulas
- Energy and momentum
- Circular motion & gravity
E&M and Waves:
- Electricity and magnetism
- Wave formulas
- Optics and light
- Modern physics equations
Constants and Data:
- Physical constants
- Prefixes for powers of 10
- Trigonometric functions
- Particles of Standard Model
💡 Essential: Practice with these tables extensively before the exam. Know where every formula is located!
Scoring & Grading Scale
Physics Regents scores are scaled from 0-100. Your raw score (out of approximately 85 points) is converted using an official conversion chart. Passing requires a scaled score of 65 or higher.
🧮 Calculate Your Physics Regents Score
Use our free Physics Regents Score Calculator to estimate your scaled score based on your raw score
Physics Regents Score Calculator →📊 Performance Levels
Level 5: Mastery with Distinction
Exceptional understanding of physics concepts and problem-solving
Level 4: Mastery
Demonstrates strong physics knowledge and analytical skills
Level 3: Proficient (Passing)
Meets graduation requirement and demonstrates competency
Level 1-2: Below Proficient (Not Passing)
Does not meet graduation requirement; retake required
📈 Approximate Raw Score Conversion
Typical conversion (varies by exam administration):
- 65 (Passing): Approximately 27-30 raw points out of 85
- 80 (Mastery): Approximately 50-55 raw points out of 85
- 90 (Distinction): Approximately 65-70 raw points out of 85
- 100 (Perfect): Typically requires 80-83+ raw points
💡 Note: The conversion curve helps students - you don't need a perfect raw score. Use the official chart for your specific exam.
Key Topics Covered on Physics Regents
The Physics Regents tests the Physical Setting/Physics Core Curriculum with major topic areas:
1️⃣ Kinematics (Motion)
- Distance, displacement, speed, velocity, acceleration
- Position-time and velocity-time graphs
- Kinematic equations: \(v_f = v_i + at\), \(d = v_i t + \frac{1}{2}at^2\), \(v_f^2 = v_i^2 + 2ad\)
- Free fall and acceleration due to gravity (\(g = 9.81 \, \text{m/s}^2\))
- Vector addition and resolution
- Projectile motion (horizontal and vertical components)
2️⃣ Dynamics (Forces & Newton's Laws)
- Newton's First Law: Inertia and balanced forces
- Newton's Second Law: \(F_{\text{net}} = ma\)
- Newton's Third Law: Action-reaction pairs
- Free-body diagrams (ESSENTIAL skill!)
- Friction: static and kinetic (\(F_f = \mu F_N\))
- Weight and normal force
- Tension, applied forces, and equilibrium
3️⃣ Circular Motion & Gravitation
- Centripetal acceleration: \(a_c = \frac{v^2}{r}\)
- Centripetal force: \(F_c = \frac{mv^2}{r}\)
- Period and frequency of circular motion
- Universal gravitation: \(F_g = \frac{Gm_1m_2}{r^2}\)
- Gravitational field strength: \(g = \frac{F_g}{m}\)
- Orbital motion and satellites
4️⃣ Momentum & Impulse
- Momentum: \(p = mv\) (vector quantity)
- Impulse: \(J = F\Delta t = \Delta p\)
- Conservation of momentum: \(p_{\text{before}} = p_{\text{after}}\)
- Elastic and inelastic collisions
- Impulse-momentum theorem applications
5️⃣ Work, Energy & Power
- Work: \(W = Fd\cos\theta\) (when force and displacement angles differ)
- Kinetic energy: \(KE = \frac{1}{2}mv^2\)
- Potential energy (gravitational): \(PE_g = mgh\)
- Potential energy (elastic): \(PE_s = \frac{1}{2}kx^2\)
- Conservation of energy: \(E_{\text{initial}} = E_{\text{final}}\)
- Power: \(P = \frac{W}{t}\) or \(P = Fv\)
6️⃣ Electricity & Magnetism
- Electric charge: Positive and negative, conductors vs. insulators
- Coulomb's Law: \(F_e = \frac{kq_1q_2}{r^2}\)
- Electric field: \(E = \frac{F_e}{q}\)
- Electric potential difference (voltage): \(V = \frac{W}{q}\)
- Ohm's Law: \(V = IR\)
- Electric power: \(P = VI = I^2R = \frac{V^2}{R}\)
- Series and parallel circuits (resistors and bulbs)
- Magnetic fields, magnetic force, right-hand rules
- Electromagnetic induction and Lenz's Law
7️⃣ Waves & Sound
- Wave properties: amplitude, wavelength, frequency, period
- Wave equation: \(v = f\lambda\)
- Transverse vs. longitudinal waves
- Wave behavior: reflection, refraction, diffraction, interference
- Standing waves and resonance
- Sound waves: speed in different media, Doppler effect
- Electromagnetic spectrum
8️⃣ Optics (Light)
- Ray diagrams for mirrors and lenses
- Law of reflection: \(\theta_{\text{incident}} = \theta_{\text{reflected}}\)
- Snell's Law (refraction): \(n_1\sin\theta_1 = n_2\sin\theta_2\)
- Index of refraction: \(n = \frac{c}{v}\)
- Total internal reflection and critical angle
- Converging and diverging lenses
- Concave and convex mirrors
9️⃣ Modern Physics
- Photoelectric effect: \(E_{\text{photon}} = hf\)
- Wave-particle duality of light
- Energy-mass equivalence: \(E = mc^2\)
- Atomic energy levels and photon emission/absorption
- Nuclear reactions: fission and fusion
- Standard Model of particles
Physics Regents Preparation Strategies
Success on the Physics Regents requires understanding concepts, mastering problem-solving, and applying physics to real-world scenarios. Follow these expert strategies:
Master Mechanics First (40-50% of Exam)
Mechanics is the foundation - kinematics, Newton's Laws, energy, and momentum form nearly half the exam. Practice drawing free-body diagrams for every force problem. Master vector addition and resolution. Understand when to use energy vs. force methods. Work through 50+ mechanics problems before moving to other topics.
Know Your Reference Tables Cold
The reference tables contain ALL formulas you need. Practice locating equations quickly - know which page has kinematics, electricity, waves, etc. Understand what each variable means and when to use each formula. Make flashcards linking physics concepts to their formulas. Speed matters - you can't waste time searching during the exam.
Show ALL Work with Proper Units
For every calculation: (1) Write the formula, (2) Substitute values WITH units, (3) Solve step-by-step, (4) Circle final answer with units. Never skip steps! Partial credit is substantial if your method is correct. Use proper SI units (m, kg, s, N, J, W) and check dimensional analysis. \(F = ma\) means force (N) = mass (kg) × acceleration (m/s²).
Practice Circuit Analysis & Electricity
Electricity problems appear on every exam. Master Ohm's Law (\(V = IR\)), power calculations (\(P = VI\)), and series vs. parallel circuits. Know how to: calculate total resistance, find current through branches, determine voltage drops, and calculate power dissipation. Practice drawing and analyzing circuit diagrams. Review the right-hand rules for magnetic forces.
Complete 5-7 Full Practice Exams
Work through past Physics Regents exams under timed conditions (3 hours). Get comfortable with the question cluster format where questions build on each other. Focus on constructed-response questions requiring explanations - study scoring rubrics to see what earns full credit. Time yourself: aim for 2 minutes per question average. Review ALL mistakes and understand the physics concepts behind each answer.
Start Preparation 6-8 Weeks Early
Physics requires time to build understanding. Begin studying 6-8 weeks before the exam. Create a topic schedule: Week 1-2 (Mechanics), Week 3 (Energy/Momentum), Week 4 (Electricity), Week 5 (Waves/Optics), Week 6 (Modern Physics + Review), Weeks 7-8 (Practice exams). Study 60-90 minutes daily. Form study groups to discuss concepts and solve problems together.
📚 Recommended Study Resources
- NYSED Regents Archive: Free past Physics exams with answer keys and detailed rubrics
- Reference Tables: Download from NYSED and use a personal copy for all practice
- APlusPhysics.com: Excellent NY Regents Physics resources and practice problems
- Khan Academy Physics: Video lessons for all mechanics, electricity, and waves topics
- Your Lab Manual: Review all lab experiments and data analysis from the year
- Physics Textbook: Complete practice problems at end of each chapter
- NUM8ERS Physics Tutoring: Personalized exam prep with expert physics instructors
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Frequently Asked Questions
❓ When is the Physics Regents exam in 2026?
The Physics Regents exam is offered three times in 2026: January 21, 2026 (12:00 PM - restricted form), June 10, 2026 (1:15 PM - early admin), June 25, 2026 (9:15 AM - regular admin), and August 2026 (date TBD). Most students take it in June after completing their full Physics course. The June 25 morning administration is the most common for first-time test takers. Always verify the exact time with your school as some schools may schedule at 8:00 AM instead of 9:15 AM.
❓ How many questions are on the Physics Regents?
The Physics Regents has approximately 85 questions worth 85 points total (the exact number may vary slightly between 83-87 depending on the question cluster design). Unlike older formats, questions are now organized into question clusters - groups of interconnected questions built around real-world phenomena or scenarios. Each cluster includes multiple stimuli (passages, data, graphs, diagrams) followed by both multiple-choice and constructed-response questions. Students have 3 hours to complete the entire exam. The distribution is roughly 60% multiple-choice and 40% constructed-response questions.
❓ Do you get a reference table for Physics Regents?
Yes! You receive a comprehensive Reference Tables for Physical Setting/Physics booklet with every exam. It contains ALL formulas you need including: kinematics equations, Newton's Laws, energy and momentum formulas, electricity and magnetism equations, wave equations, optics formulas, modern physics equations, physical constants (speed of light, gravitational constant, Planck's constant, etc.), trigonometric values, and the Standard Model of particles. You do NOT need to memorize formulas - they're all provided! However, you MUST know: (1) Which formula to use for each problem type, (2) What each variable represents, (3) How to rearrange equations, and (4) Where to find information quickly in the tables. Practice with the reference tables extensively before the exam.
❓ What score do you need to pass the Physics Regents?
To pass the Physics Regents exam, you need a scaled score of 65 or higher out of 100. Performance levels are: 0-64 = Not Passing, 65-79 = Proficient (Passing), 80-89 = Mastery, and 90-100 = Mastery with Distinction. The raw score needed for a 65 varies by exam administration due to the conversion curve, but typically requires approximately 27-30 raw points out of 85. This means you can miss about 55-58 points and still pass. However, aim for 80+ to demonstrate mastery and strengthen your college applications. Use our Physics Regents Score Calculator to estimate your scaled score from your practice exam raw scores.
❓ Is Physics Regents harder than Chemistry?
It depends on the student's strengths. Physics is generally considered more mathematical and requires stronger problem-solving and analytical skills. If you're comfortable with algebra, trigonometry, and abstract thinking, you may find Physics easier. Physics emphasizes: understanding concepts deeply, applying formulas correctly, drawing diagrams (free-body diagrams, ray diagrams, circuit diagrams), and solving multi-step problems. Chemistry involves more memorization of facts, lab procedures, and chemical reactions. Both exams are challenging but test different skill sets. Most students take Chemistry first (10th/11th grade) then Physics (11th/12th grade), so Physics builds on prior science knowledge. Success in either requires consistent study and practice with past exams.
❓ What are the hardest topics on Physics Regents?
Based on student feedback and scoring data, the most challenging topics typically include: (1) Electricity and Magnetism - especially circuit analysis with series/parallel combinations and right-hand rules for magnetic forces, (2) Circular Motion & Gravitation - understanding centripetal force and orbital mechanics, (3) Waves and Optics - Snell's Law, ray diagrams, and wave interference patterns, (4) Two-Dimensional Kinematics - projectile motion with vector components, and (5) Energy Conservation Problems - knowing when and how to apply energy vs. force methods. The good news? These topics are predictable and appear on every exam. Focus extra preparation time on these areas. Work through 20-30 practice problems for each challenging topic. Many students struggle with the same concepts, so the conversion curve often accounts for difficulty. Master the fundamentals and you'll excel!
❓ Can you use a calculator on Physics Regents?
Yes! You are permitted to use a scientific or graphing calculator on the Physics Regents exam. A scientific calculator is sufficient for all Physics calculations (trigonometric functions, logarithms, powers, square roots), but you may use a graphing calculator if you prefer. Make sure your calculator can handle: sine, cosine, tangent functions (for vector components and optics), square roots (for kinematic equations), powers and scientific notation (for very large or small numbers), and basic arithmetic. Bring fresh batteries and a backup calculator if possible. No calculator sharing is allowed during the exam. Practice using your calculator efficiently before test day - you should be comfortable entering scientific notation and performing multi-step calculations quickly.
❓ Where can I find past Physics Regents exams?
Past Physics Regents exams are available for free on the official NYSED (New York State Education Department) website. Visit the NYSED State Assessment page and navigate to the Regents Examinations archive under "Physical Setting/Physics." Each exam administration includes: the complete test booklet, answer key with correct responses, detailed scoring rubric showing how partial credit is awarded for constructed-response questions, and sample student responses with commentary. The NYSED site has exams dating back many years. Additional excellent resources include APlusPhysics.com (NY Regents-specific practice with detailed solutions), Khan Academy Physics (video lessons for all topics), and various Physics Regents prep books. Practicing with actual past exams is absolutely essential - complete at least 5-7 full exams under timed conditions (3 hours) before taking the real test. Focus especially on the question cluster format introduced in recent years.
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