<p>I read into the Advanced Standings Exams at MIT, and found them to be apparently a good deal. If you get a C or higher, you get a P on your transcript (same grade someone who took the class and got an A would get). I already have some founding in physics, chemistry, and calculus and so was considering taking some time this summer to prepare to take the advanced standing exams during orientation.</p>
<p>Specifically, I'm looking at 18.02 (Multivariable Calc), 8.02(Physics - Electromag), and 5.111(Chemistry), the others will be covered by AP. I've some experience in all of these, but of course would need to put in some serious studying time.</p>
<p>What do you think about studying for and getting these out of the way, as opposed to actually taking the class. Part of what is pushing me to do this is a chance to get ahead, as well as to be able to take a few more intro classes in various subjects like aerospace...or whatever. On the other hand, waiting to take these classes this fall would probably give me a better foundation.</p>
<p>To Take or Not to Take the Advanced Standing Exams, Thoughts:</p>
<p>Well, you might as well take the exams, then decide if and when you pass if you'd like to use the credit.</p>
<p>I think it's worth seriously considering if you want to take the credit and run -- there are a lot of challenging classes you could take first term freshman year on P/NR which would give you a great foundation for your other courses (18.022, 8.022, etc). You should also consider whether starting out first term freshman year in all advanced classes with very few freshmen in them is a good idea or not. (Items-on-your-plate management. :))</p>
<p>I also hope you'll get your studying done before coming to campus -- every year there are freshmen who are so worried about passing their advanced standing exams that they don't have as much fun as they ought to during rush and orientation. Advanced standing is great, but don't let it get in the way of the important stuff.</p>
<p>Our school offered Physics C AP this year through an online course. I took it (it wasn't really informative) and don't think I got 5's on both AP tests (Mechanics & E/M). Can I take the Advanced Standing Exams for 8.01 and 8.02? Obviously, I'll need to study/ re-learn physics c stuff this summer, but I just wanted to know if this is possible at all. Thx.</p>
<p>If I take a summer college class in physics (both electrical and mechanical), would I be prepared enough to take the placement exams for 8.01 and 8.02?</p>
<p>Physics at MIT is notoriously tough and even introductory courses 8.01 and 8.02 are MUCH tougher than AP classes. Less than 25% of students taking the AS test pass the test. Most with 5's on AP still take 8.01 with less than 16% electing to take the credit with 5's on both parts. It could be a big mistake to elect out of 8.01 and get a lousy grade on 8.02. If you have not had experience with the MIT p-sets you will be in for big surprise!</p>
<p>Well, yes, I don't think anyone should be under the impression that taking these tests will be a cakewalk. Still, there are really no negative consequences of taking the tests, so there's no reason not to take them if you feel comfortable with the material.</p>
<p>I got a 5 on Cal BC and am planning to take 18.02 this fall; does this mean, I don't need to take any more math class at MIT after that if I do not want to? Or, does it mean I still need to take a second semester math higher than 18.02?</p>
<p>Only 18.01 and 18.02 are required as part of the GIRs; if you successfully pass 18.02 in your first semester you're not required to take another math class second semester. But you'll want to look into the details of your intended major and see whether further math classes might be required. I think at least 18.03 is expected for many majors.</p>