<p>You don’t have to take the exam, but I think it’s suggested that you take the Chemistry placement exam. If you do poorly, nothing happens. You still jump to the higher level and don’t have to start from basics again. You can only use 2 APs for fulfilling distribution requirements, though. I’m using my Chem and Calc BC credits for distribution and starting from Econ 201. Since I already know the material, hopefully, the class will be somewhat easier for me. :] But anyway… I hope my answers helped!</p>