3 answers
Derek
Student
Carmichael, California
2
Questions
Updated
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Is IB worth taking?
There's both International Baccalaureate (IB) and AP at my school, I was wondering which one would be the best for colleges and which ones would be the best to take.
#business
#AP
#IB
#collegesuccess
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3 answers
Sia Moua
Project Management | Communication | Social Impact
9
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Sia’s Answer
Hi Derek, either is fine. I took IB in high school (we didn't have AP) and it definitely prepared me for college. I really liked that it prepared me to think critically and there was a lot of depth to the curriculum. Unless things have changed, you don't have to get the diploma to take the classes. I do believe, however, that you have to start taking it in 11th grade; otherwise, you won't be able to take the 12th grade class. I recommend talking to your IB coordinator for more details.
Jennifer Haden
Higher Education Consultant
123
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Jennifer’s Answer
Derek,
Yes! The IB is worth taking, but it's not for everyone. AP is fantastic, but it offers something very different from the IB.
What is it that you're looking for in your experience?
How hard are you willing to work?
Are you a self-motivated learner?
What are your goals related to these programs?
I'd encourage you to ask yourself these questions and answer them very honestly. The IB diploma programme is a two-year commitment. AP coursework is a yearlong commitment.
The best program is the one that addresses your goals and fits with your expectations. Universities would rather see a rigorous course load with strong grades rather than one with mediocrity and/or switching around.
As an educational consultant, I'm asked this question often. Only YOU, I'm afraid, can answer it "correctly" for you. I am willing to continue the discussion and answer more logistical questions, if you'd like however.
Ask away!
IB AP
Yes! The IB is worth taking, but it's not for everyone. AP is fantastic, but it offers something very different from the IB.
What is it that you're looking for in your experience?
How hard are you willing to work?
Are you a self-motivated learner?
What are your goals related to these programs?
I'd encourage you to ask yourself these questions and answer them very honestly. The IB diploma programme is a two-year commitment. AP coursework is a yearlong commitment.
The best program is the one that addresses your goals and fits with your expectations. Universities would rather see a rigorous course load with strong grades rather than one with mediocrity and/or switching around.
As an educational consultant, I'm asked this question often. Only YOU, I'm afraid, can answer it "correctly" for you. I am willing to continue the discussion and answer more logistical questions, if you'd like however.
Ask away!
IB AP
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3473
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Derek,
Wondering if the International Baccalaureate (IB) is worth your time?
The choice between the IB program and Advanced Placement (AP) courses largely hinges on your personal academic goals, your learning style, and your preferences. Both paths offer challenging content that can boost your college applications and open up chances for college credit. Here are some important factors to ponder:
International Baccalaureate (IB):
Critical Thinking: The IB program prioritizes critical thinking abilities, global consciousness, and a comprehensive approach to education.
Depth of Curriculum: IB courses dive deep into subjects and stimulate students to link different disciplines.
IB Diploma Programme: To secure an IB diploma, students need to finish courses in six subject areas, along with core elements like Theory of Knowledge and the Extended Essay.
Cost: IB assessments might be pricier than AP exams.
Global Recognition: The IB program is globally acknowledged and could be advantageous if you aim to study abroad.
Advanced Placement (AP):
College Credit: AP courses present the chance to gain college credit based on exam scores, usually ranging from 1 to 5.
Course Availability: AP courses are more prevalent in U.S. high schools, with a broad spectrum of subjects on offer.
Focused Study: AP courses concentrate on specific subjects and aim to ready students for college-level work.
Flexibility: Students have the liberty to select AP courses based on their interests and strengths.
Considerations:
Personal Goals: Decide if you favor a wide-ranging, interdisciplinary approach (IB) or a concentrated, subject-specific approach (AP).
Workload: Reflect on the workload of each program and how it matches with your academic abilities and time management skills.
College Preferences: Investigate the colleges you're eyeing to see if they lean towards IB or AP courses when assessing applicants.
In summary, both IB and AP come with their own advantages, and the choice to pursue IB hinges on your unique preferences, academic goals, and future ambitions. It could be beneficial to chat with your school counselor or teachers to collect more details about the requirements and advantages of each program.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used in Answering this Question:
www.bestcolleges.com: Offers in-depth details on the contrasts between IB and AP programs, including their structures, focuses, costs, and college credit possibilities.
International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO): Provides official resources and guidelines about the IB program’s curriculum, assessments, and diploma prerequisites.
The College Board: As the entity behind the AP program, it provides insights into AP course offerings, exam formats, scoring criteria, and college credit policies related to AP exams.
Stay blessed!
James Constantine Frangos.
Wondering if the International Baccalaureate (IB) is worth your time?
The choice between the IB program and Advanced Placement (AP) courses largely hinges on your personal academic goals, your learning style, and your preferences. Both paths offer challenging content that can boost your college applications and open up chances for college credit. Here are some important factors to ponder:
International Baccalaureate (IB):
Critical Thinking: The IB program prioritizes critical thinking abilities, global consciousness, and a comprehensive approach to education.
Depth of Curriculum: IB courses dive deep into subjects and stimulate students to link different disciplines.
IB Diploma Programme: To secure an IB diploma, students need to finish courses in six subject areas, along with core elements like Theory of Knowledge and the Extended Essay.
Cost: IB assessments might be pricier than AP exams.
Global Recognition: The IB program is globally acknowledged and could be advantageous if you aim to study abroad.
Advanced Placement (AP):
College Credit: AP courses present the chance to gain college credit based on exam scores, usually ranging from 1 to 5.
Course Availability: AP courses are more prevalent in U.S. high schools, with a broad spectrum of subjects on offer.
Focused Study: AP courses concentrate on specific subjects and aim to ready students for college-level work.
Flexibility: Students have the liberty to select AP courses based on their interests and strengths.
Considerations:
Personal Goals: Decide if you favor a wide-ranging, interdisciplinary approach (IB) or a concentrated, subject-specific approach (AP).
Workload: Reflect on the workload of each program and how it matches with your academic abilities and time management skills.
College Preferences: Investigate the colleges you're eyeing to see if they lean towards IB or AP courses when assessing applicants.
In summary, both IB and AP come with their own advantages, and the choice to pursue IB hinges on your unique preferences, academic goals, and future ambitions. It could be beneficial to chat with your school counselor or teachers to collect more details about the requirements and advantages of each program.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used in Answering this Question:
www.bestcolleges.com: Offers in-depth details on the contrasts between IB and AP programs, including their structures, focuses, costs, and college credit possibilities.
International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO): Provides official resources and guidelines about the IB program’s curriculum, assessments, and diploma prerequisites.
The College Board: As the entity behind the AP program, it provides insights into AP course offerings, exam formats, scoring criteria, and college credit policies related to AP exams.
Stay blessed!
James Constantine Frangos.