AP Calculus is the study of rates of change and accumulation. AP Calculus AB is equivalent to the first semester of college calculus (derivatives), plus part of the second semester (integrals). AP Calculus BC completes the second semester and includes polar and parametric applications and Taylor series. Each course counts as a separate AP math course, so you can earn up to 8 hours of college credit by passing the BC exam.
85 or higher in Honors Pre-Calculus; Also you must truly understand and be able to use the mathematical concepts from Pre-Calculus. AP Calculus requires you to use this prior knowledge on a daily basis.
If you LOVE math, AP Calculus is for you. If you are interested to see how the math you have learned throughout your high school career can be used to solve more complicated problems, this course is for you! Also, students who take AP Calculus get a taste of college-level math work. The students who take this course are better prepared for college-level math courses because they have learned the study skills needed to be successful. AP Calculus is one of the most academically rigorous AP courses offered, which means you will need to study and practice problems daily in order to be successful. The course is a college-level experience preparing you for the academics you will see at the university level.