Physics requirement for science schools?

Hello! I was just wondering if it’s /required/ I take a full year of calculus-based physics before applying to schools such as CalTech and MIT. AP Physics really doesn’t fit into my schedule, so I’m really conflicted.

My situation is a bit unique, since I have taken the AP Physics C: Mechanics exam and scored a 5 on it. My school spends an entire year teaching Mechanics (I tried convincing them I could do it last year, but they were fervent about not letting me take the class). However I might be able to fit in AP Physics C: E/M next semester. I’ll have to use my Mechanics credit for that… The only problem, then, would be that I’d be missing a semester out of the required “full year of physics.” I’ll be taking Organic Chemistry as a science this semester, and that’s really the only thing that fits. I’m not superman and can’t fly around places to take classes, haha…

Thank you!

AP Physics C: Mechanics counts as one year of physics. Top colleges want one year each of basic chem, bio, and physics, and then one of them at an advanced level (4 sciences total). You’ve already gone beyond what is expected.

@guineagirl96 Thank you for the reply. I was just wondering if they’d take my 5 in lieu of a…“formal course”… Why do i hate that term so much, haha? Thanks!

Is there a real reason why you’re taking organic chem?

@NASA2014 I am very, very interested in Biochemistry. Biochemistry is offered next semester, but Organic Chemistry is a pre-requisite to Biochemistry. I am taking them at a university. Why am I not taking Physics E/M at the university? Well… Physics E/M isn’t a very popular 2nd semester class, so only one time slot is offered. It’s sorta physically impossible for me to work this out.