AP and IB: What’s Better for applying to college?

The Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) programs are both high school programs that offer college-level courses and the opportunity to earn college credit. However, the two programs have different philosophies and goals. AP is designed to help high school students prepare for college by taking advanced courses, with no set program of courses. On the other hand, IB was developed to be an internationally recognized diploma, and to earn the diploma, students have to take a certain number of courses in a range of subjects. Students must be enrolled in an IB class to take an IB exam.

Many colleges accept AP or higher-level IB exams, but not all give credit for standard-level IB exams. Some schools may offer the opportunity to take a mix of both AP and IB courses. Generally, we think doing the full IB Diploma will confer more benefits, but there may be some cases where certain subjects are only offered in one format. There is no need to consider ‘which is better looked upon by colleges, AP or IB?’ because colleges just want to see that you have taken the most challenging course load available at your school, whether it's AP or IB. Therefore, you should worry about taking rigorous classes that fit your abilities and interests which your high school offers, and not worry about directly comparing AP versus IB.

should ib diploma students take ap exams?

We get this question a lot! Since IBDP students won’t take their IB exams until May of their Grade 12 year (typically after you receive college acceptances in the US), some consider that maybe it is best to have some ‘confirmed’ AP scores taken in Grade 11. However, there are several reasons why students in the IB diploma program should not need to worry about taking AP exams.

1. The IB program is already rigorous enough The IB diploma program is widely recognized as one of the most challenging high school programs available. The program requires students to complete six subjects, including three at a higher level, in addition to completing a research project, a theory of knowledge course, and community service hours. The program is designed to provide students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in college and beyond.

2. The IB program is recognized by top colleges and universities The IB diploma program is recognized by top colleges and universities around the world. According to the International Baccalaureate Organization, over 2,000 colleges and universities in the United States and around the world recognize the IB diploma as a rigorous and challenging academic program. Many colleges and universities also offer credit or advanced standing to students who earn the IB diploma.

3. The IB program covers similar material to AP exams Many of the subjects covered in the IB program, such as English, math, and science, are also covered in AP exams. In fact, many IB courses are designed to be more comprehensive than their AP counterparts, covering more material in greater depth. Therefore, students who complete the IB program will have already covered much of the material that is tested on AP exams.

4. The IB program emphasizes critical thinking and research skills One of the key goals of the IB program is to develop critical thinking and research skills. The program includes a research project and a theory of knowledge course, both of which are designed to teach students how to think critically and analyze information. These skills are highly valued by colleges and universities and are essential for success in college and beyond.

Essentially, students in the IB diploma program should not need to worry about taking AP exams. The IB program is already rigorous enough and is widely recognized by top colleges and universities around the world. The program covers similar material to AP exams and emphasizes critical thinking and research skills, making it an excellent preparation for success in college and beyond. Instead of worrying about AP exams, students in the IB program should focus on mastering the material covered in their IB courses and developing their critical thinking and research skills.