Should You Take AP Calculus AB Junior Year and AP Calculus BC Senior Year?

Often, students and parents are unsure about whether taking AP Calculus AB in junior year and AP Calculus BC in senior year is the best strategy for vying for acceptance into elite colleges. While the decision can feel daunting, it can be viewed favorably by admissions committees, provided you manage to excel in both courses.

Course Rigor

AP Calculus BC is considered a more advanced course than AP Calculus AB. Taking both shows that you are committed to challenging yourself academically and are capable of handling advanced mathematics. This demonstrates to elite colleges that you are prepared for the rigors of higher education and can manage complex coursework.

Sequential Learning

AP Calculus AB serves as a foundation for BC. Completing AB before BC demonstrates that you have a solid understanding of calculus concepts. This sequential learning approach is beneficial as it ensures you grasp the basics before moving on to more complex topics in BC. Elite colleges often look for students who can handle a logical and sequential progression in their coursework.

College Readiness

Elite colleges and universities often seek students who have taken rigorous coursework, especially in areas relevant to their intended major. Completing both AP Calculus courses can indicate that you are prepared for the mathematical demands of college-level studies. Admissions committees are impressed by students who show a strong dedication to advanced topics in mathematics.

Grades and Performance

Ultimately, how well you perform in these courses is crucial. Strong grades in both AP classes, along with good scores on the AP exams, will further strengthen your application. Admissions committees look at a variety of factors, including your GPA, extracurricular activities, essays, and recommendations. Excelling in both AP Calculus AB and BC can certainly enhance your overall application, but it is just one aspect of a comprehensive set of qualifications.

Sequencing the Courses

Many students and advisors suggest taking AP Calculus BC senior year as it helps to retain the material better without forgetting much. However, the best sequence can vary depending on the school and the student's learning style. For some, taking BC senior year is the optimal choice. For others, taking both courses in sequence (junior year for AB and senior year for BC) can provide a solid foundation and deepen understanding of the subject matter.

It can be more efficient to skip AP Calculus AB and go straight to BC. BC already covers everything in AB and includes additional topics, so going straight to BC saves time and can be more efficient. This allows you to progress to more advanced mathematics, such as multivariable calculus, in the following year.

Final Considerations

The decision to take AP Calculus AB junior year and AP Calculus BC senior year should be informed by a variety of factors, including your school's curriculum, your learning style, and your overall academic goals. Elite colleges value a demonstrated commitment to advanced studies, strong performance, and a well-rounded academic profile. By excelling in both courses, you can enhance your standing with admissions committees and strengthen your overall application.

Ultimately, the success of this course sequence depends on your ability to excel in the subjects and maintain a strong overall academic record. If you are prepared and willing to challenge yourself, this can be a highly advantageous strategy for your application to elite colleges.