AP® Calculus BC Exam Info

Note: This page includes only the content exclusive to AP® Calculus BC. For differentiation and integration, see AP® Calculus AB

Overview

AP® Calculus BC is indeed a very rigorous course, however with proper studying and practice, it can be understood. The BC Exam, while being on the harder side due to the course's complex nature, has consistently high average scores due to it's generous curve.

For practice problems and one-on-one tutoring, see the AP® Calculus BC Tutoring Page.

Units

The units unique* to AP® Calculus BC are as follows:

Unit I - Integration and Accumulation of Change, Cont.

Unit II - Differential Equations, Cont.

Unit III - Parametric Equations, Polar Coordinates, and Vector-Valued Functions

Unit IV - Infinite Sequences and Series

*The AP Calculus BC Exam also includes all of the units from AP Calculus AB and the tester is given two different scores for the single exam.

Exam Structure

Tips

Formulas

Both AP® Calculus are taken  without a formula sheet, so it is very important that you understand and remember all formulas used throughout the course. Thankfully, a strong grasp on the content will allow you to derive many of the formulas yourself.

Test Weighting

Since the expected weighting of the exam is listen on The College Board's website, it can be used as a study tool, guiding you through which subjects to place the most emphasis on.

Watch Videos

One of the biggest opportunities to learn that many neglect is watching videos of others working out problems. While some problems can fit into a formula, many cannot, and require problem solving skills. Watching others work out problems can be very beneficial to understanding how to approach certain types of problems.

Practice Past AP® Exams

The College Board officially publishes most of the AP® Exams in past years as well as solutions to all problems. These can be a very helpful study tool to utilize when preparing for the AP® Exam.