I took AP Chem instead of Honors Physics

Applying to College
1

Hey everyone,

I’m in a rough spot. I’m intending on being a computer science major (thus, engineering), but senior year, I opted to take AP Chem instead of Honors Physics at the school. Now as I’m looking at applying to schools like Stanford and Yale, I’m seeing they strongly suggest taking a physics course and I’m kicking myself. Will this ruin me? I have very competitive scores, salutatorian, etc… Also, should I try to self-study for AP Physics test or try to find a local community college course? I’m freaking out. Thanks.

2

Have you taken any physics yet?

If not, physics in college may be harder for you than for students who have had high school physics (sometimes listed as a prerequisite for college physics).

However, not all CS major degree programs require physics.

3

Hi, I haven’t taken any physics, no, although I took an integrated science course freshman year. :((

4

I think you should do a summer physics course at a local CC. I would enroll, and email proof to the rep for the colleges you want to know bout this.

5

Stanford’s CS major requires physics, but allows the physics courses for biology majors:
http://csmajor.stanford.edu/Requirements.shtml#Science

Yale’s CS major does not require physics:
http://catalog.yale.edu/ycps/subjects-of-instruction/computer-science/

However, schools as selective as these are likely to prefer students who had all three of biology, chemistry, and physics in high school.
http://admission.stanford.edu/basics/selection/prepare.html

6

OP is a senior…too late for that (assuming OP is submitting applications now for Fall 2016).

I think it is what it is…I’m not sure you can do anything seeing as applications are due.

7

No you did ‘ruin’ your chances. They ‘strongly recommend’ but don’t require physics. They can see from your transcript that you aren’t slacking by taking AP Chem. This isn’t going to keep you out if you are the applicant they want. Keep in mind, however, that those who are admitted have something differentiating about their applications - strong CS students with perfect grades and test scores are a dime a dozen at Stanford. The real question is why you would be more ‘value added’ as a student then the future CS major whose application is right next (and before, and after - Stanford gets a lot of CS applicants) to yours.