Which AP Calculus Exam Should I Take: AB or BC? (2024)

FAQs

Which AP Calculus Exam Should I Take: AB or BC? ›

If you're planning to go to a STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics) program, then BC could give you a good head start on your required math. However, if you are planning a career that doesn't require heavy math, you might be better off taking AB.

Since BC Calculus has to cover more material in one year, at many schools it has more frequent and harder assignments. AB Calculus is definitely challenging, but it doesn't move as fast, so it's less likely you'll fall behind. Taking AB Calculus might free up your schedule for an additional class.

Of those who considered themselves a "math person," AP Calculus AB was not very difficult (average score: 2.04), and AP Calculus BC was slightly difficult (average score: 2.64). Of those who considered themselves somewhat of a "math person," AP Calculus AB was moderately difficult (average score: 3.42).

If you plan to study engineering, physics, or mathematics in college, taking AP Calculus will be more beneficial as it's a prerequisite for many college-level courses in these fields. If you're leaning towards social sciences, psychology, business, or data-focused fields, AP Statistics might be more applicable.

The main difference between the two courses is that Calculus BC covers the fundamentals of Calculus AB at a faster pace and includes additional topics such as parametric functions, polar functions, vector functions, and analysis of series.

Colleges won't penalize you for choosing AB over BC, as long as you're still engaging in a challenging and well-rounded course of study.

AP Calculus BC ranks as the 12th toughest subject among the 28 AP subjects surveyed.

As a junior myself taking pre-calc I would say pre- calc. Although it is harder, it is better to learn it in high school than in college. If your school offers college in the high school for it than use pre-calc that you did in your senior year.

It's important to consider your own strengths, interests, and academic goals when deciding on which courses to take. If you're not particularly strong in math but still want to challenge yourself, AP Stats might be a good option for you.

No, AP Calc BC is not typically considered an easy class. It's designed for students who have a strong foundation in mathematics and are ready to tackle more advanced concepts. The course moves at a fast pace and covers topics in greater depth than many other high school math classes.

Is AP Calc BC just Calc 2? ›

AP Calculus BC is equivalent to a full year regular college course, covering both Calculus I and II. After passing the exam, students may move on to Calculus III (Multivariable Calculus).

Elite colleges often filter applications by a single high school course: calculus. Standardized tests like the SAT and ACT have lost importance, making calculus even more important for some admission officers. Acing calculus gives your college app a competitive edge, but colleges' reliance on calc is problematic.

If you completed your prerequisite math classes with ease or enjoyment, AP Calculus AB could be a good course for you. You should also weigh your long-term goals after graduation. Depending on your prospective field of study, you may find earning a college calculus credit in high school beneficial.

If you take AP Calc AB without Pre-calc as a foundational course, you might get clobbered and struggle and get a B or C and do poorly on the AP exam. Colleges would rather like to see the progress in STEM courses sequentially and get high marks on both the class work and the test scores.