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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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James Constantine’s Answer

Dear Natalie,

Understanding the Difference Between AP and IB Classes

IB classes form a comprehensive curriculum that encourages students to adopt a wider perspective on their education, consider global issues, and cultivate ethical and responsible behavior. Conversely, AP classes are structured to provide high school students with college-level courses. These classes span a variety of subjects such as arts, English, history, social sciences, math, computer science, sciences, and world languages.

Exploring the IB Program and Its Functioning

The IB program encompasses six subject groups: Studies in Language and Literature, Language Acquisition, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, and The Arts. These classes are demanding but also allow students to decide how they want to direct their efforts. The IB curriculum includes the DP Core, consisting of three main elements: Theory of Knowledge, Creativity, Activity, and Service, and The Extended Essay.

Unpacking AP and Its Operation

AP, short for Advanced Placement, classes are structured to provide high school students with college-level courses. There are currently 35 AP courses available for selection, covering a wide range of subjects. The AP program also offers the AP Capstone Diploma Program, which equips students with skills in original research and collaboration for projects and presentations.

Deciding Between Full IB Diploma and Multiple AP Classes

Both IB and AP classes are demanding and can make a student's college application more impressive. However, opting for the full IB diploma may reflect a student's dedication to a comprehensive and challenging curriculum. The choice between IB or AP classes ultimately depends on the student's interests, career objectives, and college ambitions.

References:

International Baccalaureate. (n.d.). The IB diploma programme. Retrieved from https://www.ibo.org/programmes/diploma-programme/
College Board. (n.d.). Advanced Placement Program. Retrieved from https://apstudent.collegeboard.org/apcoursebrowse/courses

I'm 95% confident this information is accurate.

Stay blessed,
James Constantine Frangos.
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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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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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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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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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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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