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Is AP or IB better?

I have the option of taking AP or IB classes or full IB diploma at my high school. Is there a reason whether to take one over the other? Does full IB diploma look good on a college application (better than lots of AP classes)? #ap #ib #high-school

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Paul’s Answer

Hi Natalie,

I personally took both AP and IB in high school and participated in both end-of-the year tests. To be as direct as possible, if you plan to attend a university after high school, then AP is the way to go. You will earn more credit through AP classes which will not only save you money in the long run, but also time that you would have spent on required general education classes. IB is accepted globally, hence the name, but from my own experiences (as an IB diploma holder) it doesn't differentiate you from the AP crowd. IB is generally more for the experience while AP is more of a head-start on college. Good luck!


Sincerely,

Paul
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Estelle’s Answer

This depends largely on the location of your IB program as well as the universities you are interested in. We have an IB program at the high school that my kids attended. However, the program was not well established and most students received more college credits by participating in AP classes.
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Alnaya’s Answer

If dual enrollment is offered in your city, enroll in the program! Dual enrollment is so much better. I was able to basically be a full-time college student during my last 2 years of high school. Originally, I was in AP and IB and decided to drop out of those in favor for dual enrollment. Best decision ever! Saved two years of time and money.
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Sheryl’s Answer

Hello, thanks for your question. AP refers to specific courses you can take while a high school junior or senior. IB refers to an entire course of study (usually within an IB school but not always). So, it really depends on what you have available. AP is certainly more common and familiar to US college admissions reps. However, IB is not unfamiliar to them. .

Sheryl recommends the following next steps:

You might want to reach out to refer to the FAQs of colleges you are interested to see if this topic is addressed. At any rate, both paths demonstrate academic rigor
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Nicholas’s Answer

I wish I took IB back in HS for the reason of the extra 30 credits your start off with after completing the program. This gives a jump start to your college career and can allow for more time to obtain higher credentials in less time. However, both are great problems and it depends on where you want to go in life. IB certainly takes more time!
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