AP Calculus AB or BC

Pre-College Issues High School Life
1

Hi everyone,
I’m going to be a sophomore next year and I’m planning on majoring in STEM.
I would really like to take Calculus sooner rather than later.
Unfortunately, my school only offers Calculus AB and you’re not allowed to take it until senior year. I’ve already learned Precalculus and know a bit of basic calculus so do you guys think I should self-study for Calculus BC next year (or maybe even junior year)?
I’m taking 3 APs next year (not including Calc BC), so I don’t think I would overload myself.
Thanks for reading!

2

What do you gain by self-studying calc sooner if your school offers nothing beyond that? Then you’d merely return here next summer asking whether it’s ok not to take math for two years.

3 APs for a sophomore is plenty. Find something more interesting to do with your time outside of class than self-studying for AP calc.

1 Like
3

@evergreen5

Thanks for the response.
I’m going to learn the content in AP calculus BC either way since I need to learn calculus for physics (and other courses).
I also heard that it’s better if you take calculus before senior year? And that BC is better than AB?
Anyway, I just thought that taking the test wouldn’t use that much extra time.

4

Three AP’s your sophomore year is plenty. Calc BC is just a continuation of AB but more in-depth, at least at my son’s HS it’s that way. I wouldn’t say not taking Calc BC is a showstopper.

Talk to your counselor. At a high level map out your classes for the next 3 years just to get ideas. If it’s underwhelming then look for alternatives. Does your school allow students to take college classes? Are there any academic clubs that would interest you? Don’t underestimate EC’s and how they can help you grow. Life isn’t just academics.

Also, taking a little less intensive schedule your senior year isn’t a bad idea. You’ll be doing applications, writing essays, and visiting schools. Those take-up time.

1 Like
5

You don’t need calc BC for any HS physics course (includind AP Phhysics C), or any other course in HS

You heard wrong. It dies not matter when you take calc.

6

@chmcnm

Thanks for the suggestions.