<p>I'm really ecstatic that I got accepted into WashU ED but I find their AP policy in some areas to be a bit disappointing. I realize many people fail to successfully transition from AP Chem to Organic Chem but it seems that they aren't offering anything of much value for those who have passed the AP Chem exam. According to their website, you receive credit for both Chemistry 103(only this for a four) and 104. </p>
<p>But this doesn't help you with pre med or science major requirements. The usual freshman chem classes are chem 111 and 112. So what is the point of taking the AP Chem examination? Wouldn't you just be better suited studying for their Chemistry placement exam(if you really wanted to go straight into organic chemistry).</p>
<p>I'm asking you guys this because I'm planning to take the AP Chem exam in May but after reading their policy I don't really have the motivation to study for/take the exam anymore. Is there some benefit of credits for Chemistry 103/104 that I am not seeing? Any additional info?</p>
<p>I have no idea what 103/104 is- I don't think there's an actual use to it.
Only engineering can use AP credit for chem.
Besides, there's a LOT of material in chem 111 that isn't covered in ap chem (such as intro. quantum mechanics that's usually left for p-chem in other schools), I can guarantee you that.</p>
<p>There is a reason you don't get to go straight to organic. AP Chemistry is almost NOTHING like what you do in 111 (which I just finished). I don't understand why you wouldn't take the exam if you can still get credits toward graduation. I guess you might find it frustrating that you don't get to skip ahead, but I suppose that's just one of the downsides to going to a top school. TONS of kids in my class took AP Chem, and they all say that it didn't really help at all (except for in lab). </p>
<p>Take the exam, though. You're in the class, and you've just gotten accepted into a school that values a passion for learning...don't skip it out of laziness.</p>
<p>To be honest..I'm not in the class because my school doesn't offer it but I'm in Advanced Chem. The class basically uses the same textbook but isn't necessarily geared towards the AP exam. Additionally, I was planning on using Barron's/Princeton to prepare. </p>
<p>I don't think it is a matter of laziness rather being wise with my time and money. Since they don't offer the AP Chem exam they would make me pay for the proctor/test fee. </p>
<p>Thanks for elucidating the situation on classes before organic chem, I didn't know it was that extreme.</p>
<p>I might self study macro or micro economics instead, sounds interesting.</p>
<p>It is true that the AP credits are limited. You can take up to 15 in A&S, but Chem is not one that helps a lot. What I will tell you is that the actual material you are studying is important. My S made an A in AP Chem and a 5 on the exam, and has busted his butt to make a B in 111 at Wash U. So don't underestimate it. I suggest you work as hard as you can. Whether you take the AP test or not is up to you. It certainly does no harm. At our HS, taking the AP test is required in lieu of a final, so ask yout counselor/teacher.</p>
<p>My son had taken AP Chem and gotten a 5, but it was strongly recommended that he take first year chem at Wash U. He was glad he did. He did not take AP Bio, but learned that over half his class had. He's now in medical school, so it all worked out.</p>
<p>I'm sure this has already been mentioned, but chem 103 and chem 104 are not actual courses; they're made up classes so that you can get credit for your work. Credits earned through AP scores can go towards distribution requirements (i think), but skipping intro level chem is not at all recommended; the subject matter is nothing like AP chem and everyone struggles to some degree. As a side note, if you get enough AP credits then technically you can register for classes as a sophomore so you get to sign up before most other freshmen.</p>