IB Courses: What Are They?

Hi everyone! I've just started considering the idea of taking some IB courses. Can someone explain what they are, how they compare to AP classes, and if they're well-regarded by colleges during the application process?

Hello! International Baccalaureate (IB) courses are part of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, a comprehensive and rigorous two-year curriculum for high school students aiming to earn an IB Diploma. The program is designed to promote critical thinking, international-mindedness, and interdisciplinary learning.

IB courses are similar to Advanced Placement (AP) courses in that they both provide college-level coursework for high school students and can potentially earn college credit or advanced standing based on exam scores. However, there are some key differences between the two programs:

1. Curriculum: While AP courses focus solely on individual subjects, the IB curriculum is more holistic and includes six subject groups (Language and Literature, Language Acquisition, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, and the Arts), Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS) components, and an extended essay research project.

2. Assessment: AP courses conclude with a single standardized exam, whereas IB assessments are a combination of internal evaluations (coursework and teacher evaluations) and external exams.

3. Flexibility: AP courses can be taken individually or as part of a larger set, whereas the full IB Diploma Programme has specific requirements to earn the diploma. However, students can choose to take individual IB courses for certificates if they don't want to pursue the full diploma.

Colleges generally regard both AP and IB courses positively during the application process, as they demonstrate intellectual curiosity, academic rigor, and a commitment to challenging coursework. While it can depend on the specific college, IB courses are often viewed as more demanding due to their emphasis on critical thinking, interdisciplinary learning, and their core components beyond individual subject areas. That being said, choosing between AP and IB ultimately depends on your personal academic interests, goals, and what your school offers.

If you're interested in taking IB courses, consider discussing the options with your school counselor and researching the specific colleges you're interested in, to ensure their recognition of IB courses and exams for credit or advanced standing.