AP Chemistry
Course Information
AP Chemistry is an introductory college-level chemistry course that helps students develop a deep understanding of chemical concepts through inquiry-based investigations, quantitative analysis, and scientific reasoning.
Subject Area: Science
UC A-G Area: D – Science
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 STEM, healthcare, and physical science college pathways, including:
Chemistry / Chemical Engineering / Pre-Medicine / Pharmacy / Materials Science / Biology / Environmental Science / Biochemistry / Neuroscience
Prerequisites
Students should:
- Earn an A or B in Honors Chemistry, or an A in CP Chemistry
- Complete or have preparation through Pre-AP Chemistry
Students should also be comfortable with algebra, quantitative problem-solving, scientific reading, laboratory procedures, and interpreting chemical data.
Course Units
- Atomic Structure and Properties
- Compound Structure and Properties
- Properties of Substances and Mixtures
- Chemical Reactions
- Kinetics
- Thermochemistry
- Equilibrium
- Acids and Bases
- Thermodynamics and Electrochemistry
Comparison Table
2027 AP Exam Information
Exam Date: May 6, 2027 | Exam Duration: 3 Hours 15 Minutes
Section I
Multiple Choice
- 60 questions
- 1 Hour 30 Minutes
- 50% of Score
Students answer individual questions and question sets based on diagrams, models, data, and chemical scenarios.
Questions may assess the ability to:
- Explain chemical properties and phenomena
- Analyze models and representations
- Interpret experimental information
- Solve quantitative chemistry problems
- Evaluate scientific claims using evidence
A scientific or graphing calculator is permitted and recommended.
Section II
Free Response
- 7 questions
- 1 Hour 45 Minutes
- 50% of Score
The section includes:
- 3 long free-response questions
- 4 short free-response questions
Students may be asked to:
- Analyze chemical models and representations
- Design or evaluate experimental procedures
- Represent chemical data using graphs or diagrams
- Perform quantitative calculations
- Develop and justify scientific claims using evidence and reasoning
Free-response questions are viewed in Bluebook, while answers are handwritten in the provided exam booklet.
A scientific or graphing calculator is permitted and recommended.
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 Biology
Explore cellular processes, genetics, evolution, ecology, and other core biological concepts through laboratory investigation and scientific reasoning.
AP Environmental Science
Explore ecosystems, environmental problems, human impacts, sustainability, and potential environmental solutions.
AP Physics 1
Develop an understanding of motion, forces, energy, rotation, and other foundational physics concepts using algebra-based problem-solving.
AP Calculus AB
Develop a foundation in differential and integral calculus that can support future study in chemistry, engineering, and other quantitative STEM fields.
Questions About AP Chemistry
Where can I find official AP Chemistry resources and exam details?
For the official course framework, exam information, calculator policies, and student resources, visit the College Board AP Chemistry page.
Is there a laboratory component to AP Chemistry?
Yes. AP Chemistry includes a substantial laboratory component. Approximately 25% of instructional time should be devoted to laboratory investigations. Franklin Academy laboratory science courses also require students to complete at least seven labs per semester and a formal lab report each semester.
Is AP Chemistry math-heavy?
AP Chemistry requires a strong algebra foundation and frequent quantitative reasoning. Students use mathematics to analyze stoichiometry, equilibrium, reaction rates, thermochemistry, acids and bases, and electrochemistry. Calculus is not required.
What calculator can I use on the AP Chemistry Exam?
Students may use an approved scientific or graphing calculator on both sections of the exam. Bluebook also provides built-in Desmos scientific and graphing calculators.
Should I keep my laboratory notebook?
Yes. Students are encouraged to keep laboratory notebooks, reports, and related materials after completing the course, especially if they may later need documentation of their laboratory experience.
Interested in Enrolling in AP Classes?
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