Choosing Between AP and IB

If you’re looking for more academic rigor in selecting your future high school, you might want to consider Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) programs. These two programs are similar but also have some key differences that you should know to make an informed decision. Here’s a breakdown to help you.

Overview

AP is a program created by the US College Board. It offers high school students college-level courses and exams. AP exam scores are recognized by universities worldwide, including in Canada, the U.S., and Europe. The International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma is a two-year program for grades 11 and 12, with pre-IB classes in grades 9 and 10. IB was Launched in Geneva in 1968, and it focuses on creating globally-minded students with critical thinking and social responsibility. Like AP, IB is also accepted by universities around the world.

Structure

AP has no set curriculum. It offers 38 individual courses in subjects like Arts, Math, Sciences, and History. As for specifically what AP courses a school offers, it depends on each school. On the other hand, the IB program has a fixed structured curriculum with six subject groups: Arts, Sciences, Math, Language and Literature, Language Acquisition, and Individuals and Societies. IB students must take at least three higher-level (HL) courses, and complete core components like Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS), and an Extended Essay.

Focus

AP focuses on mastering specific subjects to prepare for college. It's popular with motivated students looking to challenge themselves and get ahead in college. IB takes a more integrated approach. It emphasizes critical thinking, a global perspective, and connections between different subjects. Its 4000-word research paper and community service project help build maturity, time management, and responsibility -- skills valued in college and beyond.

Flexibility and Cost

AP is more flexible -- students can take exams without enrolling in AP courses or being part of a high school AP program. This suits those with busy schedules or specific academic interests and not wanting a fixed program structure. It's also cheaper, with exams costing about $94 each. IB requires enrollment in a high school IB program, otherwise you can't take the IB exams to receive an IB diploma. IB has higher fees too (around $119 per exam, plus program fees). However, many IB schools offer financial aids. The IB’s CAS component also requires extracurricular activities, which may be a challenge for students with limited free time.

College Preparation and Support

Both AP and IB are rigorous programs that would make a high school student competitive for college applications -- the programs are known to prepare students for the academic demands of college and those who do well in these programs have demonstrated their ability to handle hard work. High scores in either AP or IB may earn you college credits, allowing you to skip entry-level courses and save on tuition (Note: Each college has its own policy around this. Do check on college websites to confirm).

In Summary...

Choosing between AP and IB depends on your goals. AP is flexible and cost-effective, making it a good choice for students who have busy schedules or are highly focused on specific subjects. IB offers a comprehensive education, emphasizing critical thinking, community service, and a global mindset. Consider your interests, academic goals, and commitments to decide which program suits you better. Good luck!