Transfer courses?

<p>I'm an incoming college freshman applying as a transfer for fall 2013 entry. </p>

<p>How strict is MIT with recommended coursework?</p>

<ol>
<li><p>If I start out in Calc I this fall and take Calc II in the spring, am I at a disadvantage compared to other transfers who started out in higher calculus classes their freshman year? (I have to start back at Calc I because of scheduling conflicts this fall, otherwise I would have placed higher). Do they favor people who were able to place higher?</p></li>
<li><p>Would taking advanced computer science courses (linear/nonlinear data structures) make up for the fact that I probably won't be able to take chemistry this year? Otherwise I'll have covered all of my recommended coursework in calculus, physics and biology.</p></li>
</ol>

<p>Maybe I'm just over-thinking it. </p>

<p>Thanks everyone!</p>