When planning your AP schedule, it’s important to know which courses are considered the hardest AP classes. Difficulty depends on several factors — including pass rates, content load, and the skills required.
This guide covers:
- How we ranked the hardest AP classes
- The top hardest AP courses based on data and student feedback
- Why these classes are so challenging
- Tips for success in each
How We Ranked the Hardest AP Classes
To determine difficulty, we looked at:
- National pass rates (percentage of students scoring 3 or higher)
- Percentage of students scoring a 5
- Subject content volume and complexity
- Skills required (memorization, math, analysis, writing)
- Student workload and time commitment
Hardest AP Classes Ranked
1. AP Physics C: Electricity & Magnetism
- Very low pass rate compared to other APs
- Heavy on advanced calculus-based physics
- Requires strong math and problem-solving skills
2. AP Chemistry
- Large volume of topics and formulas
- Requires deep conceptual understanding and lab skills
3. AP Physics C: Mechanics
- Highly technical, calculus-based course
- Tests problem-solving speed and accuracy
4. AP U.S. History (APUSH)
- Enormous content load covering centuries of history
- Essay-heavy, requiring strong writing skills
5. AP Calculus BC
- Covers Calculus AB content plus advanced topics like series and parametric equations
- Requires mastery of both concepts and speed
6. AP Biology
- Vast number of concepts and processes to memorize and apply
- Heavy on labs and data interpretation
7. AP English Literature & Composition
- Requires deep analysis of complex literary texts
- Demands strong writing and critical thinking
8. AP World History: Modern
- Global history from 1200 CE to the present
- Focus on thematic analysis and essay writing
9. AP European History
- Complex historical themes and political analysis over centuries
- High reading and writing workload
10. AP Statistics
- Requires mastery of both conceptual understanding and calculations
- Data-heavy and application-focused
Why These AP Classes Are Challenging
- Content volume: The amount of material covered is often equivalent to two college semesters.
- Skill intensity: Courses combine memorization, analysis, math, and writing.
- Time management: Success requires consistent study habits, not last-minute cramming.
Tips for Succeeding in the Hardest AP Classes
- Start reviewing from the beginning of the year
- Practice with real AP exam questions regularly
- Form study groups to discuss challenging topics
- Use score calculators to track progress
- Focus on understanding concepts rather than rote memorization
Related RevisionDojo Resources
- AP Score Calculators
- AP Exam Test Strategies
- APUSH Study Guides
- AP Calculus BC Prep
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Which AP class has the lowest pass rate?
A1: AP Physics 1 often has one of the lowest pass rates, though AP Physics C and AP Chemistry are also very challenging.
Q2: Should I avoid hard AP classes to protect my GPA?
A2: Not necessarily — colleges value rigorous courses, especially if you can earn strong scores.
Q3: Which AP classes are the easiest?
A3: AP Psychology, AP Environmental Science, and AP Human Geography are often considered easier.
Q4: Is it worth taking multiple hard AP classes in one year?
A4: Only if you have the time management skills and motivation to handle the workload.
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