AP Calculus AB
Course Information
AP Calculus AB is an introductory college-level calculus course focused on differential and integral calculus.
Subject Area: Mathematics
UC A-G Area: C – Mathematics
Course Level: Advanced Placement
Open Terms: Summer & Fall
Enrollment Information
Course Start: 9/16/2026
Course End: 5/5/2027
Class Mode: Onsite/Online
Enrollment Period: 5/1/2026-8/30/2026
Related College Majors
This course provides useful preparation for many quantitative college pathways, including:
Engineering / Computer Science / Mathematics / Physics / Data Science / Statistics / Economics / Finance / Chemistry / Applied Mathematics
Prerequisites
Students must meet one of the following:
- Earn an A or B in Honors Math 3
- Earn an A or B in Precalculus
- Qualify through a placement test
Students should be comfortable working with linear, polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric, inverse trigonometric, and piecewise-defined functions.
Course Units
- Limits and Continuity
- Differentiation: Definition and Fundamental Properties
- Differentiation: Composite, Implicit, and Inverse Functions
- Contextual Applications of Differentiation
- Analytical Applications of Differentiation
- Integration and Accumulation of Change
- Differential Equations
- Applications of Integration
Comparison Table
2027 AP Exam Information
Exam Date: May 10, 2027 | Exam Duration: 3 Hours 10 Minutes
Section I: Multiple Choice
42 Questions · 1 Hour 40 Minutes · 50% of Score
Part A
- 29 questions
- 62 minutes
- Graphing calculator not permitted
Part B
- 13 questions
- 38 minutes
- Graphing calculator required for some questions
Section II: Free Response
6 Questions · 1 Hour 30 Minutes · 50% of Score
Part A
- 2 questions
- 30 minutes
- Graphing calculator required
Part B
- 4 questions
- 60 minutes
- Graphing calculator not permitted
The exam uses a hybrid digital format. Multiple-choice questions are completed digitally, while free-response answers are handwritten in the provided exam booklet.
Related AP Courses
Explore other AP courses that complement this course and can help you build a broader academic pathway based on your interests, strengths, and future college goals.
AP Precalculus
Strengthen the function, algebra, and trigonometry skills needed for calculus.
AP Calculus BC
Continue into a broader college-level calculus curriculum.
AP Statistics
Explore data analysis, probability, statistical inference, and real-world data.
AP Physics C: Mechanics
Apply calculus to motion, forces, energy, momentum, rotation, and mechanics.
Questions about AP Calculus AB
Do I need AP Precalculus before AP Calculus AB?
Not necessarily. Franklin Academy students may qualify with an A or B in Honors Math 3, an A or B in Precalculus, or through a placement test.
What grade level is this course for?
Placement should be based primarily on mathematical preparation rather than grade level. Students should complete the required prerequisite mathematics before enrolling. Learn more about AP Calculus AB on the College Board website.
What is the difference between AB and BC?
AB focuses on the foundation of differential and integral calculus. BC includes the AB foundation and extends into additional calculus topics.
Is this course useful for STEM majors?
Yes. Calculus is commonly used in engineering, mathematics, physics, computer science, data science, and other quantitative college programs.
Can international students participate?
Yes, the program is open to students from around the world
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