Whether choosing which high schools to apply to or which courses to take once enrolled, it’s crucial that students and families understand the differences between the curricular options available to them. Understanding the slight differences in the Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) programs can be challenging, and many students want to know how the programs differ, and what each will communicate about them on their transcripts. Beyond high school course selection, in the increasingly globalized landscape of higher education, many students in the U.S. and the U.K. are considering international education as a possibility for their college careers. However, understanding and preparing for the different metrics by which students are evaluated by schools abroad can be overwhelming, and may even deter some students from considering international study.
This guide offers a comprehensive overview of the Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), and U.K. Advanced Level Qualifications (A-Levels), so that students can make informed and strategic decisions about their high school course of study!
What is the Advanced Placement (AP) curriculum?
The Advanced Placement program is predominantly offered in the United States, where approximately 35% of high school graduates have engaged in AP coursework. AP classes offer students the opportunity to complete college-level coursework while still in high school, with the potential to earn college credits through the successful completion of AP exams—some programs allow students who earn a 4 or 5 (out of 5) on an AP exam to earn course credit (students should research individual colleges’ policies to determine whether this could be an option for them). AP courses are offered in a wide array of subjects in the sciences, mathematics, arts, and humanities. The AP program’s hallmark is its flexibility, as it allows students to choose AP courses based on their personal interests and strengths. Additionally, students can choose to take AP exams (and potentially earn college credit for them) even if they have not enrolled in AP classes.
KEY TIP
Sitting for an AP exam for which you have not taken the course is generally not recommended. If you’re considering registering for an AP exam without having taken the corresponding class, start by reading our advice on the matter.
What is the AP Capstone Diploma? What is the AP Seminar and Research Certificate?
In 2014, AP shifted towards a more comprehensive program with the launch of the AP Capstone Diploma. The Capstone Diploma requires students to earn a score of three or higher on four AP exams of their choice, and successfully complete two classes: AP Seminar and AP Research. These are courses devoted to the development of soft skills such as critical thinking and research. Students can also take AP Seminar and AP Research to earn the AP Seminar and Research Certificate, which is different from the Capstone Diploma in that it does not require scoring a three or above on four additional AP exams.
What is the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum?
Both in content and implementation, the IB program is more global than the AP program in its approach. While IB is implemented in only 900 American high schools, it was offered at 5,700 schools in 159 countries as of 2021. Additionally, the subject matter of IB courses tends to focus more on global issues and the development of students into responsible and informed global citizens, whereas the AP is more conventional in its academic model. Students may choose to enroll in one or more IB courses through their institution or the complete IB Diploma Program during their junior and senior years of high school. Designed to foster well-rounded graduates, the IB Diploma Program requires students to complete courses in six subject areas as well as in three core elements, including Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Extended Essay (EE), and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS). Its emphasis on critical thinking and international-mindedness sets it apart. Like with the AP curriculum, students may be able to receive college credit for the successful completion of IB courses, but policies vary depending on the institution.
What is the main difference between the IB Diploma Program and the AP Capstone Diploma?
In addition to the stark pedagogical differences, in many schools, AP courses are offered in 9th through 12th grades, meaning that students can stagger their Capstone requirements over their entire high school career. For example, you could take one of the four required AP courses each year, and take the Seminar and Research courses in either 10th and 11th grade, or 11th and 12th grade, respectively. This allows for a great deal of flexibility, as opposed to the IB Diploma Program, which requires students to take six courses simultaneously in both 11th and 12th grades.
What are A-Levels?
A-Levels, offered in the British education system, present a more tailored approach, offering a pathway for students to seek specialization and expertise in their specific fields of interest. Over the course of about two years, students prepare for their examinations by choosing three or four subjects for in-depth study, allowing them to explore their chosen disciplines thoroughly. Students can also elect to take the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) after taking 3 A-Levels, allowing them to conduct independent research on a project of their choosing that will enhance their knowledge and boost their resume at both universities and vocational jobs. The A-Level examinations themselves require a considerable amount of writing, and students should keep this in mind as they prepare. As with any testing path, students should research institutional requirements at their target school, as some have specific disciplinary expectations for students applying to particular majors.
When choosing A-Levels, students should consider the following factors:
1. Interest and Skill Set
It’s crucial for students to select subjects they are genuinely interested in and have an aptitude for. A-Levels require a significant investment of time and effort, so studying subjects that align with their passions and strengths can make the learning experience more enjoyable and rewarding. Additionally, students should consider how their chosen subjects might relate to their future career aspirations or academic pursuits.
2. Academic and Professional Goals
Students should research the A-Level requirements for their desired university courses or future career paths. Some universities and employers may have specific subject requirements or preferences, so it’s essential that students choose A-Levels that align with their goals. Students should also consider the potential impact of their A-Level choices on their future options, such as whether certain subjects are prerequisites for particular degree programs or professions.
3. Complementary Disciplines
When choosing A-Levels, students should consider subjects that complement each other. For example, if a student is interested in studying engineering at university, taking A-Levels in Mathematics and Physics would be beneficial as they provide essential skills and knowledge for the field.
Distinguishing Factors Between AP, IB, and A-Levels
1. Depth of Curriculum
Of all of the programs, AP tends to be the most broad in its subject matter. IB strikes a balance between breadth and depth, encouraging students to engage with multiple subjects while fostering critical thinking skills. Conversely, A-Levels offer significant curricular depth, allowing students to specialize in a limited number of subjects and develop expertise in their chosen fields.
2. Assessment Methods
AP courses culminate in standardized exams, providing a quantitative measure of student performance that is graded on a 1–5 scale. IB employs a multifaceted assessment approach, combining coursework, globally standardized examinations, and research projects or presentations.
End-of-year IB exams typically come in two to three parts—called Papers 1, 2 and 3—and are usually taken over a two day period. AP exams are taken in one day. Another major difference between AP and IB is that you can register and sit for AP exams without being enrolled in AP courses, but you must be enrolled in IB classes in order to sit for IB exams. In theory, you could enroll in IB courses and sit for both IB and AP exams, but as mentioned above, this is not recommended, as taking either AP or IB classes allows you to learn the theories and methods specific to AP and IB, and prepare you for their respective final exams.
3. Skills Focus
AP focuses on subject-specific knowledge and the development of analytical and problem-solving skills. IB places a strong emphasis on critical thinking, research skills, and intercultural understanding, while A-Levels prioritize in-depth knowledge and mastery of specific subjects.
4. Subject Matter Flexibility
The IB program presents the least individualized path, as it is a pre-structured, holistic curriculum, with the exception of elective courses. Students cannot take IB examinations without going through the IB program, and the program itself is oriented toward the overall development of a student. Conversely, the AP curriculum allows flexibility both in choosing subjects to study and in allowing students the option to test without taking AP courses.
The AP, IB, or A-Levels will likely be a student’s first foray into college-level coursework, and as such, the choice is an important stepping stone for a student’s college career. Certain factors may limit a student’s choices—such as their high school not offering IB or being located in the US and therefore not offering A-Levels. However, for students who have a choice, career aspirations, learning styles, university requirements, and personal interests should all play pivotal roles in this decision-making process. If one thrives in a specialized and focused academic environment, A-Levels might be the right fit. For those who enjoy a holistic and interdisciplinary approach, IB could be the ideal choice. Meanwhile, AP offers flexibility for exploration and the opportunity to tailor one’s academic journey to their individual interests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do colleges prefer AP or IB?
If you have an idea of the colleges or universities you’d like to apply to, do some research to determine whether or not they have a preference for AP or IB classes or diplomas. Some universities give preference to one or the other. If this is the case, taking the preferred courses may bolster your chances for admission. Others do not have one preference over another. Most colleges simply want to see that students chose to challenge themselves to the best of their abilities relative to the course offerings available to them.
Once you get to college, you may be able to apply high AP or IB scores for college credit. Most schools accept either AP or IB of a high enough score for college credit, while others only accept one or the other. You may want to determine whether or not the schools you plan to apply to have core requirements for graduation, and if you can apply AP or IB credit to fulfill these requirements. Testing out of core requirements can be beneficial in allowing you to take more classes in your major or department, spread out your major requirements over four years, or graduate early.
What AP or IB exam scores should I report to colleges?
Typically, students should report scores of 4 and above on AP exams and 5 and above on IB exams. That being said, some schools require that students submit complete records of their testing history along with their application. If this is not the case, some students may choose to only report the scores that will earn them college credit. Depending on the school’s policy, scores that qualify for credit are a 4 or better on the AP and 5 or better on IB exams. Note that these policies vary by institution.
Can you take both IB and AP courses?
Depending on school policies, students can technically take AP and IB classes at the same time if their school offers both programs. Depending on the student’s strengths and weaknesses and interests, it may make sense to take a mix of AP and IB courses, as opposed to enrolling in the full IB Diploma Program. Some students also choose to enroll in the IB Diploma Program and in one or two additional AP courses, particularly if they have additional interests they can not explore through the IB Diploma Program. However, the IB Diploma Program is quite intensive, and students who enroll in the entire program may not want to take AP classes in addition to their rigorous course load, but rather explore their interests independently through self study or in a summer course. Students should consult their advisor or college counselor for more personalized advice regarding AP and IB enrollment.
What are the differences between AP, IB, and A-Levels?
AP is more broad in its focus, allowing students to take select courses in their areas of interest. Similarly, A-Levels allow students to explore their interests by studying for exams in their field, though the A-Levels require a more intensive 2-year sequence of study. IB is the most restrictive and programmatic of the three options, with students taking a holistic curriculum oriented toward both academic and personal growth.
