How hard is the AP Physics C exam?

AP Physics C – E/M is considered very hard, with class alumnae rating it 8.1/10 for overall difficulty (the most difficult out of the 28 large AP classes surveyed). The pass rate is about average compared with other AP classes, with 68% graduating with a 3 or higher.

Is AP Physics C the hardest class?

Consequently, both Physics C courses (Mechanics as well as Electricity & Magnetism) are regarded as two of the hardest AP classes that you can take in high school. You'll cover topics like electrostatics, conductors, and electromagnetism over the course of five units. Finally, the course includes intensive lab work.

Is the AP Physics C test hard?

AP Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism is generally considered the hardest AP Physics course. It covers advanced topics such as electromagnetism, circuits, and Maxwell's equations, and requires strong math skills, including calculus.

How hard is it to get an A in AP Physics C?

Getting an A in AP Physics C and AP Calculus in high school can be challenging, as these are advanced-level courses that require a strong understanding of math and science. Success in these courses often depends on a student's dedication, effort, and ability to grasp complex concepts.

What is the pass rate for the AP Physics C exam?

As I mentioned, 73% of AP Physics C exam test-takers received a passing score of 3 or above. Of that 73%, 23% received a 5, 28% received a 4, and 22% received a 3. Of the non-passing cohort, 15% received a 2, and 12% received a 1. The average score in 2022 was a 3.41.

Ranking All 38 AP Classes by Difficulty (Tier List)

Why is AP Physics C pass rate so high?

The Pass Rate

AP classes like AP Physics C: E&M have stricter prerequisites than other AP classes. This means that the more difficult exams tend to have better-prepared students taking them, which can lead to higher pass rates.

Why is physics C pass rate so high?

Some AP exams, like AP Physics C: Mechanics, have higher pass-rates because the students who take it have prior experience and preparation in the sciences and are willing to challenge themselves.

Is taking AP Physics C worth it?

Students who wish to study engineering or a physical science will benefit from taking AP Physics C. Comparatively, students in other disciplines should consider taking AP Physics 1 and possibly 2 to develop a foundation in physics and fulfill many universities' science requirements.

Is AP Physics C hard without calculus?

Unfortunately, AP Physics C is designed to be taken after the completion of a calculus course. The course heavily relies on calculus concepts, and it would be challenging to fully understand and succeed in AP Physics C without prior knowledge of calculus.

Can you self study AP Physics C?

How Hard is self-studying AP Physics C: E&M? Self-studying E&M is not a decision to be taken lightly. From my experience, it will take around 80-120 hours of focused studying time, so make sure you are able to fit that into your current schedule before the AP exam.

Is it easy to get a 5 on AP Physics C?

However, getting a 5 is not easy. About one third of the students taking the AP® Physics C Mechanics exam will get a 5. Make sure you are part of that exemplary class of students by following these instructions on how to study for the AP® Physics C Mechanics exam.

Is AP Physics C easy to self study?

Studying AP Physics C (Mechanics) on your own can be challenging, but it's definitely doable with the right resources and study plan. Here are some steps to help you self-study for AP Physics C (Mechanics):

Is AP Physics C or 2 harder?

Notice there is some overlap with the Physics 2 curriculum, though again, Physics C will be more difficult since it incorporates calculus. The two topics are sometimes taught as the same course even though there are two different exams, with each topic being taught over one semester.

Is AP Physics C or chemistry harder?

According to a survey done, class alumnae gave AP Chemistry a rating of 7.3/10 for overall difficulty, making it the 4th most difficult AP course (while AP Physics C Electricity and Magnetism, AP English Literature, and AP Physics C Mechanics being the top three).

Is AP Physics C or 1 harder?

We all know that AP® Physics 1 is easier than AP® Physics C. We note that many of the AP® Physics C courses self-select for those motivated students or those with higher grades in Math. That is the reason for the ridiculously high rates for AP® Physics C as compared to AP® Physics 1.

Is AP Physics C easier than AP Physics?

While it's impossible to offer universal guidance on which exam is more difficult, as that depends on your particular background, strengths, and preferences, most students find AP Physics C more challenging, as it's both calculus-based and covers more sophisticated topics like electricity and magnetism.

Do colleges care about AP Physics C?

Like Mechanics, most colleges will accept a satisfactory score on the AP Physics C: Electricity & Magnetism exam in place of an introductory college-level physics course. Check your target colleges' websites for the exact score you need to aim for.

What is AP Physics C equivalent to?

AP Physics C: Mechanics is a half-year course equivalent to a semester-long, introductory calculus-based college course. AP Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism, a half-year course following Physics C: Mechanics, is equivalent to a semester-long, introductory calculus-based college course.

What is the hardest AP exam?

What Is the Hardest AP Class? Looking at the numbers, the hardest AP test is Physics 1. In May 2022, just 43.3% of test-takers passed, and only 7.9% received a perfect score. Other hard AP exams include US History, Macroeconomics, Chemistry, and Calculus AB.

What is the hardest AP exam to pass?

Physics 1:

AP Physics 1 is the hardest AP class with the least passing rate of 51.6. It means almost half of the students fail this exam. It's 3 hours exam consist of 50 MCQs and 5 free-response questions.

Is the AP Physics C exam curved?

The scores on AP® exams are curved by the College Board to normalize student assessment.

How many people fail AP Physics?

AP Physics 1

Physics 1 has the lowest pass rate of any AP exam (43.3%) along with one of the lowest percentages of students scoring a 5 (just 7.9%). Physics 1 is an algebra-based physics class that explores topics such as Newtonian mechanics, simple circuits, and mechanical waves.

Should I take physics before AP Physics C?

This means that the AP Physics C courses will be much more difficult than AP Physics 1 and 2 for most students. Taking AP Physics 1 or 2 (or both!) prior to taking either AP Physics C course will give you the introduction you need to succeed in AP Physics C.