Is it okay to take Physics C AP Exam even though my son is taking Physics B now?

My son is planning to take engineering courses in College. He's taking Physics B now since there wasn't enough student who signed up for Physics C last year. He's taking Calculus BC now and would like to take the AP Exam for both Calculus BC and Physics C. Reason for taking Physics C exam is that most colleges will only give credit on Physics C instead of B - expecially for engineering students. Is this a smart move? Will he still get credit for Physics C even though he's taking Physics B classes now?

Is it okay to take Physics C AP Exam even though my son is taking Physics B now?
Yes, he can take the AP Physics C Exam.


My advice would be to buy a review book on the concepts for AP Physics C. It includes calculus, advanced rotational motion, and a more in depth look at electricity and magnetism. The C test also doesnt include thermo, optics, and sound (which is on the B).


It will be difficult, but his background from taking Calc BC should help. Its a shame that the school didnt offer Physics C, it is really a great class.
Reply:He should take the AP Physics B exam. Their 2 different AP exams and the content of AP Physics B is going to prepare him for the AP Physics B exam, not the AP Physics C exam. He should stick to the exam for the class not something different.





He'll still get the credit if he passes, but AP Physics C is more advanced and he hasn't had the material required to pass the AP exam. He's got a lot more likelihood of passing the AP Physics B exam since he's had the course material required to succeed on the exam.