Checking IB Scores for College Admissions

Hey everyone! So I'm currently in the IB program at my school and I'm gonna start applying to colleges next year. What's the best way to check and report my IB scores when I'm applying? Also, how do colleges generally view IB scores compared to AP scores? Thanks!

Hey there! It's great that you're in the IB program, and I'm happy to help clarify the process of reporting your IB scores during the college application process.

When it comes to reporting your IB scores, you can self-report them on your college application, just like you would do with your AP scores. In the testing or academic sections of the application, there should be an option to enter your IB scores. You'll need to input your scores subject-wise, and there might also be an option to include your total points or predicted scores. Once you've been accepted and committed to a college, you may need to send in your official IB scores by contacting the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) and having them send a transcript directly to the college.

Regarding the comparison of IB scores to AP scores, colleges generally view them as comparable indicators of your academic rigor and abilities. Both the IB and AP programs are well-recognized and respected by colleges in the United States. If anything, some colleges might view the IB program as more comprehensive due to its diploma requirements, such as the Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge, and CAS components.

However, when it comes to college credits, the credit policies might be different for IB and AP scores. Some colleges may give more credits for higher level (HL) IB courses compared to standard level (SL) courses or might only award credit for certain scores. Be sure to research the specific credit policies for the colleges you're applying to, as they tend to vary.

Good luck with your college applications, and remember that your scores are just one part of your application! Focus on showcasing a well-rounded profile, including your extracurricular activities, essays, and recommendation letters.