How to Skip Calc 1

Is there any way to get out of having to take a Calc 1 class at my CC if I have sufficient knowledge and ability to take on Calc 2? Both classes will be required for my major. A buddy of mine (also a stem major) has the same question, so I thought I might try this forum. If any further detail is needed, please simply ask. Thank you in advance.

At many CC’s you can meet with the department chair of the math department to challenge taking Calc. 1. He/she will probably give you an exam. If you pass, they will most likely place you in Calc 2. I was in a similar situation and was allowed to skip Calc 1. I passed Calc 2. In case you are concerned about how it might look on your transcript when applying to transfer; I asked a counselor at UCLA and he said as long as you pass Calc 2, most universities won’t care that you didn’t take Calc 1.

Thank you very much, this is very reassuring. I’ve been placed into calc 2 but they warned me that I might be screwed when it comes time to transfer major-specific classes. If need be I suppose I could always request an exam for calc 1. The only thing I would appreciate more now is a link to any source that confirms this (preferably for UCs and CSUs). Thank you once again.

The one thing I didn’t ask is if it would look better if I did retake Calc 1. But it shouldn’t be an issue for admissions. I can send you an email of the conversation I had with a UCLA advisor. I’m on mobile and I can’t find a way to post a screenshot.

"See my answers below

Eric Romero wrote on 7/27/2015 6:40 PM:
Hi,

I am planning to apply as a transfer student to HSSEAS as a Chemical Engineering major. This past spring I passed Calculus 2, the equivalent of Math 31B at UCLA. During high school I took the AP Calculus AB exam and scored a 4. Do I still need to take Calculus 1 (Math 31A) to be considered for admissions?

No"

Here’s the conversation.

This is the email listed on the assist.org articulation agreement erkki@seas.ucla.edu

Thank you very much.