AP Physics C self study

Pre-College Issues High School Life
1

Hi,
I already took AP Physics 1 and Physics 2 this year (got AP test scores that I am happy with - a 5 and 4 respectively). I am aspiring to go into engineering in college and like Physics and Math. My school does not offer Physics C - is it worth to self-prepare and write Physics C tests next year?

My objective/thinking in writing these tests:
(1) Want to get better in Physics understanding. Now that I also completed calculus, am planning to do some self-study anyway - whether I write/don’t-write AP test. So why not take the test and check myself - what is the downside of writing test.
(2) A passing score in Physics C thru self study may give me some leg up (however small it maybe) in college admissions
(3) I heard the colleges don’t really give credit for physics 1 and physics 2 but look for Phy C - so in case I clear the test, will get the credit for sure - now its doubtful with physics 1 and 2.

Any thoughts/advice on my objectives/thought-process above. Also is it practical to get a 4 (my target score) in either of Physics C thru self-study? (I may get some help from the teacher - but its more material/resource suggestions)

thanks in advance.

2

It’s most likely unrealistic. Hard to simulate labs and discussion.
I would find a Physics class in CC instead.

3

I agree…not worth it and it may hurt you in the long run.

  1. Colleges don’t expect you to take classes that are not offered.
  2. Consider Dual Enrollment instead
  3. It may not be to your advantage to self study and then take an advanced physics class as your first physics class in college when you may not be prepared
  4. Spend your time on your classes in HS
  5. if you didn’t take the lab would any college even take it for credits?
  6. AP Scores are not really used for college admissions
  7. “you heard colleges don’t take credit?” Look up AP credits for colleges of interest. our local flagship does. it may depend on your major.