Skip to main content
What are your chances of acceptance?
Your chance of acceptance
Duke University
Loading…
UCLA
Loading…
+ add school
Your chancing factors
Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
200
800
| 800 verbal
200
800

Extracurriculars

Low accuracy (4 of 18 factors)

Difference between Calc AB and BC?

Hey guys, I'm trying to decide whether to take AP Calculus AB or BC next year. Can anyone explain the main differences between the two courses and which one would be more suitable for someone interested in engineering?

a year ago

The main difference between AP Calculus AB and AP Calculus BC is the amount and depth of content covered in each course. Calc AB is equivalent to a semester of college-level calculus, covering topics like limits, derivatives, and integrals. Calc BC is more intense, equivalent to a full year of college calculus. It covers all the topics in Calc AB, plus additional topics like sequences and series, parametric equations, polar coordinates, and more advanced integration techniques.

For someone interested in engineering, I would recommend taking AP Calculus BC if you feel confident in your math skills. Engineers typically need to complete multiple calculus courses in college, so taking Calc BC will give you a solid foundation and potentially allow you to skip some introductory courses at your college. However, if you're unsure about your abilities or you haven't excelled in previous math courses, it might be better to start with Calc AB. It's still a rigorous course, but it moves at a slower pace and covers fewer topics, allowing you to build your confidence and understanding of calculus concepts before moving on to more advanced material.

Whichever course you choose, it's essential to stay on top of the material and seek help if needed. Both AB and BC will be challenging, but with dedication and a strong work ethic, either course will prepare you well for future studies in engineering.

a year ago

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.