AP Biology vs AP Chemistry vs AP Physics — Which Should You Choose?

This comparison of AP Biology vs AP Chemistry vs AP Physics helps students choose the right AP science subject based on strengths, workload, and future majors. Each course has a different level of difficulty, workload, and alignment with university majors.

This guide breaks down the strengths of each AP science subject and helps you select the right one based on your goals, strengths, and future university plans.

AP Biology vs AP Chemistry vs AP Physics: Key Differences

AP Biology: Best for Life Sciences and Memorization Strength

Who should take AP Biology?

Students who enjoy:

• Memorizing biological systems

• Reading complex concepts

• Understanding processes like respiration, genetics, evolution, and ecology

  
  

Skills required

• Strong reading comprehension

• Ability to analyze biological diagrams

• Interest in living systems and laboratory work

  
  

University majors that match

• Biology

• Pre-Med

• Nursing

• Biotechnology

• Psychology

• Environmental Science

AP Biology is concept-dense and requires consistent memorization and interpretation of processes.

AP Chemistry: Best for Analytical Students and Problem-Solving

Who should take AP Chemistry?

Students who enjoy:

• Math-based problem solving

• Stoichiometry, equilibrium, thermodynamics, kinetics

• Applying logic and patterns to scientific concepts

  
  

Skills required

• Strong algebra foundations

• Ability to balance equations

• Patience with multi-step problems

  
  

University majors that match

• Chemistry

• Pre-Med

• Chemical Engineering

• Pharmacy

• Materials Science

AP Chemistry is one of the most rigorous AP science courses due to its mathematical approach and deep conceptual understanding.

AP Physics: Best for Math-Focused and Engineering-Oriented Students

Who should take AP Physics?

Students who enjoy:

• Algebra or calculus-based physics

• Mechanics, circuits, forces, waves

• Problem-solving using equations

  
  

Skills required

• Strong algebra or calculus

• Spatial and conceptual reasoning

• Ability to work with formulas and graphs

  
  

University majors that match

• Engineering

• Computer Science

• Physics

• Architecture

• Data Science

AP Physics is a strong fit for students pursuing STEM fields and technical majors.

Which AP Science Is Hardest?

Difficulty depends on the student:

Subject	Hardest For	Why
AP Biology	Students weak in memorization	Heavy content load
AP Chemistry	Students weak in math	Requires complex calculations
AP Physics	Students weak in algebra/calculus	Equations and concepts overlap heavily with math

There is no “easiest” science — only the one best aligned with your strengths.

Which Should You Choose Based on Major?

If you are choosing:

• Engineering / Computer Science: AP Physics + AP Calculus

• Pre-Med / Life Sciences: AP Biology + AP Chemistry

• Chemistry / Pharmacy: AP Chemistry (priority)

• Environmental Sciences: AP Biology

• Data Science / Math fields: AP Physics (mechanics or C)

Align your science choice with the degree you want to pursue.

Can You Take More Than One AP Science?

Yes, many students combine:

• AP Biology + AP Chemistry

• AP Chemistry + AP Physics

• AP Biology + AP Environmental Science

Students aiming for competitive universities often take two AP sciences across Grade 11 and 12.

Choose the AP science subject that:

• Aligns with your intended major

• Matches your natural strengths

• You can realistically excel in

• Fits your overall AP course load

At RiformaEdu, our AP science faculty includes specialists in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics who guide students based on their academic profile and university goals.