AP Calculus AB FAQs
Answers to the most common questions about the AP Calculus AB exam.
How hard is the AP Calculus AB?
AP Calculus AB is designed to be a moderately challenging course for advanced mathematics students. AB content covers complex Calculus I material taught in introductory, college-level courses, and extends beyond what’s normally taught in high school classes. The percentage of students who scored 3 or above on the AP Calculus AB test was 64% in 2025.
What is the difference between AP Calculus AB and BC?
The AP Calculus AB and BC are similar but distinct College Board Advanced Placement courses and exams. “AB” and “BC” refer to the levels of each course, with “BC” being the more advanced level. AB is the first course in the sequence and covers calculus concepts taught in introductory college mathematics classes. BC builds upon the knowledge taught in AB by adding more content and exploring complex mathematical concepts in greater depth.
The AP Calculus AB course content consists of eight units, though teachers have flexibility in the concepts taught and emphasized:
- Unit 1: Limits and Continuity
- Unit 2: Differentiation: Definition and Fundamental Properties
- Unit 3: Differentiation: Composite, Implicit, and Inverse Functions
- Unit 4: Contextual Applications of Differentiation
- Unit 5: Analytical Applications of Differentiation
- Unit 6: Integration and Accumulation of Change
- Unit 7: Differential Equations
- Unit 8: Applications of Integration
The AP Calculus BC course goes into the topics above in more detail and adds the following units, which are reflected in the exam content:
- Unit 9: Parametric Equations, Polar Coordinates, and Vector-Valued Functions
- Unit 10: Infinite Sequences and Series
Can I take AP Calculus AB and BC at the same time?
It is generally not advisable to take AP Calculus AB and BC together, as the final exams are administered at the same time annually, and both cannot be taken in the same year. Students are encouraged to take AB first if they choose to take both courses, though some schools allow students to take BC without completing AB.
Do I need to be enrolled in an AP class to take the exam?
While students do not have to be enrolled in an AP class to take the exam, completing the course before attempting the test is highly recommended. Students who wish to take the AP Calculus AB exam independently must register and find a participating school willing to administer the test on their own.
If your school does not offer an AP Calculus AB course, you have the option to take the class online through an accredited program.
Where do I take the AP Calculus AB exam?
For students taking AP classes in school, AP exams are usually distributed in class at the end of the school year. Your score on the AP test is distinct from your final grade in the class and will not count toward your GPA. For homeschooled students or students taking AP courses online, the final test will be taken at a nearby school or designated test center. AP exams are not offered remotely for security purposes.
Can I use a calculator on the AP Calculus AB exams?
Graphing calculators are allowed on certain portions of the exam, though the majority of test questions must be answered without one. Students have the option of bringing their own approved calculator or using the built-in Desmos calculator for the digital portion of the exam.
What AP score do I need to get college credit?
All AP exams are scored on a scale between 1 and 5. Many colleges accept AP courses for college credit, provided students score a 3 or above on the exam. However, each college has its own policy regarding AP exams and scores, so it’s important to check specific university requirements individually.
When do AP Calculus AB scores come out?
AP scores are typically released by July. To view your scores online, you must have an active College Board account.