<p>I got a C+ in AP calculus BC in the first semester of the senior year. This is very bad, I know. I took five AP courses and simply did not have time to practice the calculus. I had planned to apply to some ivies but now what is my chance? I have SAT/2260, ACT/35, UW GPA/3.85 and W GPA/4.25, ordinary ECs, a few awards.</p>
<p>A while ago, about 15 years ago or so, a book about Ivy league and other highly selective school admissions hit the market. The book was “A is for Admissions” by Michelle Hernandez. In it, she disclosed that a C in AP Calc BC is given a bit of a pass, due to the difficulty of the course. Now that was a long time ago, and more schools and students seem to be taking BC Calc which was more of a rarity back then. Things do change. But my guess is that it isn’t as damning as getting that kind of grade in something else. But then, if there are many kids in your BC class doing just fine, and in the appliant pool of these schools, it can be an issue. You will be benind those kids, all other things equal, is the reality, but how long that line is who knows.</p>
<p>My advice to you is to work your buns off and get an "A: for the next quarter and get your counselor to get the grade to the Admissions office of your schools ASAP. I would also maybe update with grades on the next few tests, through February, say, and maybe ask your school to hold your mid year transcript until that info can supplement it so that your file isn’t read and the decision made until you can include your improvement in that course, because Admisions is not going to reopen your case with this sort of update once the decision is made. Game over at that point in time.</p>
<p>Thank you, cptofthehouse. Very good suggestions.</p>
<p>I think it depends on which school you’re applying to. I know that for Wharton, they like to see that you took the highest level of Calculus offered at your school, so either they’ll like your effort or be turned off by the C…I definitely don’t think you’re out of the game though!</p>
<p>Lainers, I am applying to a science major (biology or chemistry) with focus on pre-med. My SATII is biology/790, chemistry/800, mathII/750. Actually I am very good at math as I have won several math contests. But for this particular calculus BC course, the teacher was strict and required us to invest tremendous amount of time to practice in order to perform well in the timed final test. Unfortunately I cannot afford the time partly because I have many AP courses, and partly because I have family issues. Now this C+ grade will appear on the mid-year report and I do not know what damage it will cause.</p>