IB vs. AP: What should you choose?

The AP (Advanced Placement) and IB (International Baccalaureate) programs are geared toward high school students and provide access to college-level coursework and the chance to receive college credit. What makes the two programs differ from one another? Which one appears to be more impressive? Which will give you the best chance to get admission to a prestigious university?

Important distinctions

The AP program originated in the US to aid high school students in preparing for college by enrolling in challenging courses. Depending on their school, schedule, and objectives, students might enrol in just one or as many as twelve AP classes.

On the other hand, IB originated in Switzerland to be a diploma course that is recognized globally. You must complete a minimum number of courses across a variety of them to get the diploma.

Program Objectives

IB focuses on writing and vital thinking talents rather than just examinations. This diploma requires a lengthy research paper written in the style of a college essay. There are extracurricular requirements for the IB program as well.

On the other hand, the AP program emphasizes teaching students to develop competence in subject matter and screening their awareness on examinations. There are multiple-choice questions and a focus on achieving specific content objectives.

Examinations and Classes

One can take AP exams without registration in a class, but IB exams require enrollment.

The AP college database allows you to search the AP credit policies of various colleges. Although the IB program lacks a database like this, you can look up any college or university’s IB credit policy by searching “[Name of College/University] IB Credit.”

Additionally, IB offers both standard-level and higher-level courses. You must enrol in at least three higher-level courses to receive an IB diploma. Although some subjects, like calculus and physics, have multiple course options, AP courses have only one level. Some high schools consider IB higher-level to be more difficult than AP. Although not all colleges offer credit for standard-level IB exams, most do for AP exams and higher-level IB exams.

Although there aren’t many AP “classes” in India, there has been an increase in inquiries about the exams themselves. On the other hand, IB is expanding quickly and is offered at the majority of private schools in major cities.

College Reputation

After learning more about these two programs, many of you must be wondering which one is the best.

In reality, colleges do not deem AP or IB courses to be more difficult or remarkable on a transcript. They cannot punish students for not enrolling in the IB program because it is less common. Additionally, AP and IB courses are taught and graded very differently at high schools all over the country.

As a result, colleges, especially the most selective ones, care about the most difficult course offered at the high school. This means that you should focus on enrolling in the most challenging class that your high school offers rather than worrying about AP vs. IB.

AP vs. IB in India

If you choose the IB program, you are primarily choosing not to apply to colleges in India. While some colleges now accept IB rankings, the majority still do not, and most of your colleagues will be studying abroad.

If you hold the AP examinations, you still need to select a high school board (ISC or CBSE). This implies that you would study for and take the AP exams in addition to your board exams, at the same time as you finish your board exams.

The IB program will prepare you for a demanding college course syllabus by providing you with comprehensive learning, in addition to college courses.

Although both choices are excellent, it depends on:

• The nation where you want to study
• If you want to switch your current academic board
• Taking exams other than your board examination gives you the physical and mental space.
• If you want to acquire college credits or gain extra knowledge or a new skill.

Takeaways-IB vs AP

• AP is a more accessible, less expensive, and more common alternative.
• IB ensures a well-rounded education and a more realistic preparation for liberal art colleges.

IB and AP have a noticeable impact, and college admission officers recognize the value of both programs. The National Association for College Admission Counselling’s 2019 State of College Admission report states that 73.2% of respondents rated their grades in college preparatory courses like AP and IB as being of “considerable importance.”

It is crucial to take your time into consideration and commitment to studies along with regular coursework and the program that represents your enthusiasm and goals.