AP Physics is a strong choice for students aiming for engineering, physics, astronomy, computer science or health sciences. College Board offers four separate AP Physics courses: two are algebra-based and two are calculus-based. Each is a separate exam, and students can choose one or more depending on their goals.
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Which AP Physics Course Is Right for You?
| Course | Math basis | Content | Recommended background |
|---|---|---|---|
| AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based | Algebra | Mechanics | Geometry; taking Algebra II at the same time |
| AP Physics 2: Algebra-Based | Algebra | Thermodynamics, electricity, magnetism, optics, modern physics | AP Physics 1 or a comparable introductory physics course; precalculus |
| AP Physics C: Mechanics | Calculus | Mechanics | Calculus, taken before or at the same time |
| AP Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism | Calculus | Electricity and magnetism | AP Physics C: Mechanics or equivalent; calculus |
Quick advice: if you haven't studied calculus, start with AP Physics 1. If you're aiming for engineering or physics and are studying calculus, AP Physics C: Mechanics may be the stronger choice.
AP Physics Exam Format
All four AP Physics exams share the same structure. They are hybrid digital exams: multiple-choice questions are answered in the Bluebook app and free-response answers are handwritten in a paper booklet. Each exam lasts 3 hours. Calculators are allowed throughout, and an equation sheet and reference tables are provided.
| Section | Questions | Time | Weighting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Section I: Multiple choice | 42 | 1 hr 25 min | 50% |
| Section II: Free response | 4 | 1 hr 35 min | 50% |
The free-response section always includes one question of each type: Mathematical Routines, Translation Between Representations, Experimental Design and Analysis, and Qualitative/Quantitative Translation.
2027 exam dates (per the College Board calendar): Physics C: Mechanics May 3 · Physics 1 and Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism May 5 · Physics 2 May 6, 2027.
AP Physics Courses and Units
AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based
Equivalent to a first-semester, algebra-based college physics course. Multiple-choice weighting:
- Kinematics — 10–15%
- Force and Translational Dynamics — 18–23%
- Work, Energy, and Power — 18–23%
- Linear Momentum — 10–15%
- Torque and Rotational Dynamics — 10–15%
- Energy and Momentum of Rotating Systems — 5–8%
- Oscillations — 5–8%
- Fluids — 10–15%
AP Physics 2: Algebra-Based
Equivalent to a second-semester, algebra-based college physics course. Exam weighting:
- Thermodynamics — 15–18%
- Electric Force, Field, and Potential — 15–18%
- Electric Circuits — 15–18%
- Magnetism and Electromagnetism — 12–15%
- Geometric Optics — 12–15%
- Waves, Sound, and Physical Optics — 12–15%
- Modern Physics — 12–15%
AP Physics C: Mechanics
Equivalent to a one-semester, calculus-based introductory college physics course. Multiple-choice weighting:
- Kinematics — 10–15%
- Force and Translational Dynamics — 20–25%
- Work, Energy, and Power — 15–25%
- Linear Momentum — 10–20%
- Torque and Rotational Dynamics — 10–15%
- Energy and Momentum of Rotating Systems — 10–15%
- Oscillations — 10–15%
AP Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism
Equivalent to a one-semester, calculus-based college course in electricity and magnetism. Multiple-choice weighting:
- Electric Charges, Fields, and Gauss's Law — 15–25%
- Electric Potential — 10–20%
- Conductors and Capacitors — 10–15%
- Electric Circuits — 15–25%
- Magnetic Fields and Electromagnetism — 10–20%
- Electromagnetic Induction — 10–20%
Tips for a High AP Physics Score
- Know your equation sheet: practice with the sheet provided on exam day so you know where each relationship is.
- Read graphs and diagrams: questions often use graphs, free-body diagrams and data tables.
- Prepare for the lab question: every exam includes an experimental design and analysis question. Practice explaining variables, measurement methods and sources of error.
- Check units and reasonableness: a correct number with the wrong unit loses points.
- Don't skip the reasoning: on "justify" or "explain" questions, the physical reasoning is scored, not just the final answer.
AP Physics Preparation with One World
We offer one-to-one private lessons, 3–5 student group classes, a 12-hour Fast Track and a 6-hour Boot Camp for all four AP Physics courses, at our Beşiktaş center or online. We'll help you choose the right course based on your intended major and math background. Compare the options on our AP course packages page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to take the AP Physics courses in a particular order?
No. College Board has no formal prerequisites. It does recommend AP Physics 1 or a similar introductory course before AP Physics 2, and AP Physics C: Mechanics or an equivalent before AP Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism.
AP Physics 1 or AP Physics C: Mechanics?
Both courses cover mechanics. The difference is the math: Physics 1 uses algebra, while Physics C: Mechanics uses calculus. If you know calculus or are taking it alongside, and you're aiming for engineering or physics, Physics C: Mechanics may be the better fit.
Can I use a calculator on AP Physics exams?
Yes. All four AP Physics exams allow College Board-approved calculators and provide an equation sheet.
Official course and exam information: AP Physics 1 · AP Physics 2 · AP Physics C: Mechanics · AP Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism