AP Calculus BC is the most advanced AP math course offered by the College Board. Covering the entire AP Calculus AB curriculum plus additional topics in sequences, series, parametric, polar, and vector functions, this course is ideal for students aiming for STEM majors and looking to earn maximum college credit.
Course Content
- Limits and Continuity: Understand foundational calculus concepts and how functions behave as inputs approach certain values.
- Derivatives: Techniques and applications of differentiation, including implicit, parametric, and vector functions.
- Integrals: Definite and indefinite integrals, applications, integration techniques, and area/volume calculations.
- Differential Equations: Solving and applying separable differential equations and slope fields.
- Sequences and Series: Convergence, divergence, Taylor and Maclaurin series, power series, and radius/interval of convergence.
- Parametric, Polar, and Vector Functions: Calculus in alternative coordinate systems.
- AP Exam Strategies: Practice with multiple-choice and free-response questions, timing, and test-taking strategies.
Exam Structure
- Section I: Multiple Choice (45 questions, 1 hr 45 min, 50%)
- Section II: Free Response (6 questions, 1 hr 30 min, 50%)
- Calculator and non-calculator sections included
- Scored 1–5; most colleges award credit for a score of 4 or 5
Skills Developed
- Conceptual understanding and application of advanced calculus
- Analytical thinking and problem-solving
- Modeling real-world scenarios with calculus
- Justifying reasoning and explaining solutions clearly
- Efficient use of calculator and non-calculator methods
Who Should Take AP Calculus?
- Students targeting STEM (science, engineering, math, computer science) majors
- Learners who completed precalculus or AP Calculus AB and want to go further
- Those seeking advanced placement and college credit in math
- Students looking for the most rigorous AP math experience
College Credit
Many U.S. colleges grant credit or advanced placement for high AP Calculus BC scores (usually a 4 or 5). This can satisfy introductory calculus course requirements, allowing students to advance to higher-level mathematics, engineering, or STEM courses earlier in their college curriculum.
Tips for Success
- Master the AB content before diving into BC extensions
- Practice with both calculator and non-calculator questions
- Work through released free-response and multiple-choice exams
- Don’t skip the series/sequences unit—practice convergence tests and series manipulation
- Review and seek feedback on your solutions regularly
