<p>If your reason for not taking AP Chem is because the class would be too difficult for you then it will definitely hurt your chances of admission to a university that looks for the most rigorous coursework. However, if this is the reason you are not taking it, then I would encourage you to reconsider the pre-med route.</p>
<p>If your reason for not taking AP Chem is because your school doesn’t offer it, or you had an unavoidable scheduling conflict, or a similar valid issue, then it will likely not impact your chances at all.</p>