Choosing your AP classes can be a challenge — especially if you’re aiming for a high GPA, strong college applications, and possibly earning college credit. Some AP courses have a reputation for being much tougher than others, whether due to their content, pace, or workload.
This guide will rank the hardest AP classes based on College Board data, pass rates, and student feedback, and give you tips for tackling them successfully.
How We Ranked the Hardest AP Classes
Our rankings are based on three main factors:
- Pass Rate – Percentage of students scoring 3 or higher
- Percentage of Students Scoring a 5 – Shows how often perfect scores are achieved
- Workload – Hours of homework, reading, and preparation required weekly
Hardest AP Classes Ranked
- AP Physics 1
- Low pass rate and one of the lowest percentages of 5s among all AP exams
- Heavy on algebra-based physics concepts and problem-solving skills
- Requires a deep understanding of mechanics, energy, waves, and electricity
- AP United States History (APUSH)
- Demands mastery of U.S. history from the colonial period to the present
- Includes multiple essays: DBQ, LEQ, and SAQs under strict time limits
- High content load with an emphasis on critical analysis
- AP Chemistry
- Complex concepts in stoichiometry, thermodynamics, equilibrium, and kinetics
- Requires both conceptual understanding and mathematical problem-solving
- Frequent lab work and high memorization demands
- AP English Literature and Composition (AP Lit)
- Focuses on analyzing prose, poetry, and drama
- Requires mastery of literary devices, close reading, and essay writing under time pressure
- Heavy reading workload throughout the year
- AP Calculus BC
- Covers the entire AP Calculus AB curriculum plus additional advanced topics
- Fast-paced with complex concepts like polar coordinates and series
- Requires strong algebra, trigonometry, and pre-calculus foundations
- AP Biology
- Large volume of content across cellular biology, genetics, evolution, and ecology
- Multiple-choice, grid-in, and free-response sections require both speed and accuracy
- Labs and experimental design skills are essential
- AP Physics C: Mechanics / Electricity & Magnetism
- Calculus-based physics with a steep learning curve
- Typically taken by advanced STEM students
- Very high workload and challenging problem-solving
- AP World History: Modern
- Covers over 800 years of global history
- Requires mastery of historical thinking skills and essay writing (DBQ and LEQ)
- Heavy memorization balanced with analytical skills
- AP Statistics
- Application of statistical concepts to real-world data
- Requires interpretation of data, probability, and experimental design
- Conceptual thinking is as important as memorization
- AP Environmental Science (APES)
- Misleadingly considered easy by some students, but includes complex environmental systems, data analysis, and labs
- Requires understanding of both science and policy
Why These AP Classes Are Considered the Hardest
- High Content Volume – More material to master in less time
- Advanced Skills Required – Mathematical, analytical, or writing skills beyond basic high school level
- Low Pass Rates – Fewer students earning a 3 or higher
- Rigorous Assessments – Timed essays, complex problem-solving, or multi-step labs
Strategies for Conquering the Hardest AP Classes
- Start studying earlier than you think you need to
- Use active recall and spaced repetition to retain information
- Practice with official AP questions under timed conditions
- Seek help early when you encounter challenging concepts
- Form study groups for peer explanation and accountability
Balancing Workload Across AP Classes
If you’re taking multiple APs, avoid stacking too many high-difficulty courses in a single year unless you’re prepared for a heavy workload. A good balance might pair one or two of the hardest APs with courses considered more manageable.
Why Taking Hard AP Classes is Worth It
Even if the course is challenging, AP classes show colleges that you can handle rigorous academic work. A strong score can also save time and money in college by fulfilling prerequisites. Beyond admissions and credits, these courses develop skills that will help you in any academic or career path.
Related RevisionDojo Resources
- APUSH Score Calculator
- AP Lang Exam Guide
- AP Psych Exam Guide
- AP World History Score Calculator
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Which AP class has the lowest pass rate?
A1: AP Physics 1 consistently has one of the lowest pass rates and lowest percentages of 5s.
Q2: Should I avoid taking the hardest APs?
A2: Not necessarily. If the subject interests you and aligns with your future goals, it can be worth the challenge.
Q3: Is AP Chemistry harder than AP Biology?
A3: They are difficult in different ways — AP Chem is more math-intensive, while AP Bio is heavier on content memorization.
Q4: How can I prepare for multiple hard APs at once?
A4: Plan your study schedule carefully, use efficient study techniques, and start review sessions well before exam season.
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