AP Calculus BC
AP Calculus BC covers all AB content plus additional topics including parametric equations, polar coordinates, and infinite series. It is equivalent to a full year of college calculus.
Total score | 1–5 |
Total testing time | 3 hours 15 minutes |
Adaptive? | No |
Calculator | Graphing calculator required for some parts; not permitted on others |
Units
Unit | Title | Exam weight |
|---|---|---|
1 | Limits and Continuity | 4–7% |
2 | Differentiation: Definition and Fundamental Properties | 4–7% |
3 | Differentiation: Composite, Implicit, and Inverse Functions | 4–7% |
4 | Contextual Applications of Differentiation | 6–9% |
5 | Analytical Applications of Differentiation | 8–11% |
6 | Integration and Accumulation of Change | 17–20% |
7 | Differential Equations | 6–9% |
8 | Applications of Integration | 6–9% |
9 | Parametric Equations, Polar Coordinates, and Vector-Valued Functions | 11–12% |
10 | Infinite Sequences and Series | 17–18% |
Sections and timing
Section | Questions & time | Content covered |
|---|---|---|
Section I: Multiple Choice — Part A (no calculator) | 30 questions in 60 min | All course content; 5-answer multiple choice; 33.33% of score |
Section I: Multiple Choice — Part B (calculator required) | 15 questions in 45 min | All course content; 5-answer multiple choice; 16.67% of score |
Section II: Free Response — Part A (calculator required) | 2 questions in 30 min | Multi-part written answers; 16.67% of score |
Section II: Free Response — Part B (no calculator) | 4 questions in 60 min | Multi-part written answers; 33.33% of score |
Free response question language
Identify / Find / Determine: Provide information without elaboration.
Justify your answer: Provide a logical reason for how you reached your answer.
Show that…: Make a mathematically sound argument proving a conclusion.
Approximate: Find an inexact answer using a specified method.
FAQs
How often can students take the test?
Once per year, typically in early May.
How long does it take to get scores back?
Typically released around July 5th.
Is a reference sheet provided?
No.
Is the exam adaptive?
No.
Zinkerz Syllabus: Link to be added.