AP Physics Test Dilemma?

Hey, I’m currently a junior in high school, and my goal is to get into an Ivy League level school or get a full ride to a state college. I want to major in a STEM field. Last year as a sophomore I transferred into AP Physics 1, and took it as my first AP class. Due to moving and family matters, my home life was very stressful and I wasn’t able to focus well on my studies. Nevertheless, I still managed to squeak by in that class with an A and a 3 on the AP exam. Even though I was disappointed with myself, I learned a lot about managing my time and of preparing far in advance. This year, I decided to take AP Physics C: Mechanics in addition to AP Calculus BC.

Since AP exam registration is coming up, I have to make a decision. Should I retake the AP Physics 1 test to get a 5 as well as taking the AP Physics C: Mechanics test? Or should I only take the AP Physics C: Mechanics test? I know that by taking AP Physics C: M I’ll definitely be able to score a 5 on the AP Physics 1 test. What would look best and be the best for college applications?

Do not retake the Physics 1 test. AP scores are self reported so just leave that 3 out and report your Mechanics grade on your application.

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Agreed. Plus a 5 on AP Physics C would likely supersede any credit for AP Physics 1 and will still show mastery over the mechanics topics.