Whether choosing which high schools to apply to or which courses to take once enrolled, it’s crucial that students and families understand the differences between the curricular options available to them. Understanding the slight differences in the Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) programs can be challenging, and many students want to know how the programs differ, and what each will communicate about them on their transcripts. Beyond high school course selection, in the increasingly globalized landscape of higher education, many students in the U.S. and the U.K. are considering international education as a possibility for their college careers. However, understanding and preparing for the different metrics by which students are evaluated by schools abroad can be overwhelming, and may even deter some students from considering international study.
This guide offers a comprehensive overview of the Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), and U.K. Advanced Level Qualifications (A-Levels), so that students can make informed and strategic decisions about their high school course of study!
What is the Advanced Placement (AP) curriculum?
The Advanced Placement program is predominantly offered in the United States, where approximately 35% of high school graduates have engaged in AP coursework. AP classes offer students the opportunity to complete college-level coursework while still in high school, with the potential to earn college credits through the successful completion of AP exams—some programs allow students who earn a 4 or 5 (out of 5) on an AP exam to earn course credit (students should research individual colleges’ policies to determine whether this could be an option for them). AP courses are offered in a wide array of subjects in the sciences, mathematics, arts, and humanities. The AP program’s hallmark is its flexibility, as it allows students to choose AP courses based on their personal interests and strengths. Additionally, students can choose to take AP exams (and potentially earn college credit for them) even if they have not enrolled in AP classes.
KEY TIP
Sitting for an AP exam for which you have not taken the course is generally not recommended. If you’re considering registering for an AP exam without having taken the corresponding class, start by reading our advice on the matter.
How can students ace their AP exams?
It is important to note that AP exams are a distinct format, requiring students to demonstrate their knowledge in a specific way that differs from tests for their regular high school classes. Familiarizing themselves with this unique testing format (particularly if they are not enrolled in an accompanying AP course) and preparing well in advance will equip students to put their best foot forward on these exams! Here are some key tips to set students up for success:
1. Understand the Format
Every AP exam has a unique structure. Some subject exams include multiple choice and free-response sections, while others may include a portfolio or lab component. Often, students struggle on these exams not because they do not know the material, but because they do not understand what a given question is asking for. Students should therefore familiarize themselves with the format of each test and begin taking practice tests well in advance. The College Board website offers detailed breakdowns, sample questions, and practice tests for every subject.
2. Use the SQ3R Method to Study
For exams that require a significant amount of memorization, students should try the SQ3R (Survey, Question, Read, Recite, and Review) method. Rather than simply trying to cram vast amounts of information into your brain (which is ultimately detrimental for long-term recall), this method involves first surveying, or taking an inventory, of what you know about the topic. Then, read over the material and ask yourself questions about the materials in order to test your conceptual knowledge rather than memorization. Finally, recall what you can from the material and review what you still need to work on.
3. Read Actively
Whether you’re reading a particularly complex AP History exam question, a diagram on the AP Biology exam, or a passage on the AP English exam, you should practice active reading as you take your AP exams. Underline important terms, pay attention and circle to words that might trip you up, write questions in the margins, annotate key passages, and summarize paragraphs as you read.
Tip from a Senior Mentor:
“Multiple choice questions in most school classes have the bad rap of being easier than their open-ended counterparts—answer choices can jog your memory, while a blank page cannot. The issue with this mindset on AP language and literature tests, specifically on multiple choice reading passages, is that your memory will usually mislead you (and if you’ve taken a practice test for any of these exams, you know that the multiple choice portion is no joke). Multiple choice reading questions are typically not asking “which of these answers did the passage mention or allude to?”—the answer to that is often “all of them.” Instead, they are asking you to analyze and synthesize a passage to answer specific questions.”
Top Colleges that Accept AP Courses for Credit
The benefits of taking AP courses or sitting for AP exams extend beyond high school. While policies may vary depending on the particular AP tests accepted or the scores that correlate to college credit, hundreds of colleges accept AP exam scores for college credit in some capacity. Some of the top schools in the nation that offer college credit for AP exams include:
Columbia University:
Columbia accepts AP exams with scores of 4 and 5 for credit in some subjects. The amount of credit awarded and the minimum score accepted varies by subject. [Source]
Cornell University:
Cornell accepts AP exams with scores of 4 and 5 for credit in some subjects. The amount of credit awarded and the minimum score accepted varies by subject. [Source]
Dartmouth College:
Dartmouth accepts AP exams with scores of 4 and 5 for credit in some subjects. The amount of credit awarded and the minimum score accepted varies by subject. [Source]
Duke University:
Duke accepts AP exams with scores of 4 and 5 for credit in some subjects. The amount of credit awarded varies by subject. Students can also use credits to enroll in more advanced courses if prerequisite requirements have been met. [Source]
Harvard University:
Harvard accepts AP exams with scores of 5 for credit. The amount of credit awarded varies by subject. Additionally, these exams can allow students to qualify for Advanced Standing. [Source]
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT):
MIT accepts AP exams with scores of 5 for credit in some subjects. They also allow students to skip introductory-level courses in some subjects with scores of 4 or 5. [Source]
Stanford University:
Stanford accepts AP exams with scores of 4 or 5 for credit, permitting up to 45 quarter units of credit toward the undergraduate degree. The amount of credit awarded and the minimum score accepted varies by subject. [Source]
University of California, Berkeley:
Berkeley offers a particularly generous AP policy, accepting scores of 3 or higher for credit in many subjects. Requirements vary based on the school to which you apply. [Source]
University of Pennsylvania:
While UPenn does not allow students to use credit to waive General Education requirements, they do allow students to receive credit toward their major or enroll in advanced courses on the basis of their AP scores. [Source]
University of Chicago:
UChicago accepts AP exams with scores of 5 for credit (with the exception of AP Calculus BC, for which students can earn credit with a score of 4 or higher). [Source]
Yale University:
Yale accepts AP exams with scores of 5 for credit (with the exception of AP Calculus BC, for which students can earn credit with a score of 4 or higher). The amount of credit awarded varies by subject. [Source]
For more information about which schools accept AP Scores for credit and how scores convert, check out the searchable database on College Board’s website!
Note: This is a curated rather than comprehensive list. Students should research the policies of each school on their list for further information.
What is the AP Capstone Diploma? What is the AP Seminar and Research Certificate?
In 2014, AP shifted towards a more comprehensive program with the launch of the AP Capstone Diploma. The Capstone Diploma requires students to earn a score of three or higher on four AP exams of their choice, and successfully complete two classes: AP Seminar and AP Research. These are courses devoted to the development of soft skills such as critical thinking and research. Students can also take AP Seminar and AP Research to earn the AP Seminar and Research Certificate, which is different from the Capstone Diploma in that it does not require scoring a three or above on four additional AP exams.
Top Colleges that Accept IB Courses for Credit
The benefits of taking AP courses or sitting for AP exams extend beyond high school. While policies may vary depending on theLike the AP Exams, IB Diplomas and Exams can result in college credit, depending on a student’s scores and the particular program to which they are applying. Some of the top schools in the nation that offer college credit for AP exams include:
particular AP tests accepted or the scores that correlate to college credit, hundreds of colleges accept AP exam scores for college credit in some capacity. Some of the top schools in the nation that offer college credit for AP exams include:
Bard College:
Bard College allows students to transfer up to 32 credits (a full year) for Higher Level (HL) IB examinations with scores of 5 or above. [Source]
California Institute of Technology:
Cal Tech awards credit for scores of 6 or 7 on the IB Mathematics HL; Chemistry SL or HL; or Physics SL or HL examinations. [Source]
Cornell University:
Cornell offers credit for scores of 7 in some subjects. Students should refer to specific program pages for further information. [Source]
Dartmouth College:
Dartmouth offers credit for scores of 6 or 7 on Higher Level (HL) IB examinations in some subjects. [Source]
Duke University:
Duke offers credit for scores of 6 or 7 on Higher Level (HL) IB examinations in some subjects. [Source]
Georgia Institute of Technology:
Georgia Tech awards credit for both Higher Level (HL) And Standard Level (SL) IB examinations in a variety of subjects. [Source]
Northwestern University:
Northwestern offers credit for scores of 6 or 7 on Higher Level (HL) IB examinations in some subjects (5s are accepted for Computer Science and Chemistry). [Source]
Stanford University:
Stanford accepts IB exams with scores of 5 or higher for credit in some subjects, permitting up to 45 quarter units of credit toward the undergraduate degree. The amount of credit awarded varies by subject. [Source]
University of Chicago:
UChicago offers credit for scores of 7 on Higher Level (HL) Biology, Calculus, and English, and scores of 5, 6, or 7 on Standard or Higher Level Languages other than English. [Source]
University of Chicago:
UChicago accepts AP exams with scores of 5 for credit (with the exception of AP Calculus BC, for which students can earn credit with a score of 4 or higher). [Source]
University of Texas at Austin:
UT Austin offers credit for scores ranging from 4 to 7 in some subjects. [Source]
University of Pennsylvania:
UPenn offers credit and accelerated standing for scores ranging from 5 to 7, depending on the subject. [Source]
For more information about which schools accept IB Credits and how credit transfers work, check out this list from the IB Community Blog!
Note: This is a curated rather than comprehensive list. Students should research the policies of each school on their list for further information.
What is the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum?
Both in content and implementation, the IB program is more global than the AP program in its approach. While IB is implemented in only 900 American high schools, it was offered at 5,700 schools in 159 countries as of 2021. Additionally, the subject matter of IB courses tends to focus more on global issues and the development of students into responsible and informed global citizens, whereas the AP is more conventional in its academic model. Students may choose to enroll in one or more IB courses through their institution or the complete IB Diploma Program during their junior and senior years of high school.
Designed to foster well-rounded graduates, the IB Diploma Program requires students to complete courses in six subject areas as well as in three core elements, including Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Extended Essay (EE), and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS). Its emphasis on critical thinking and international-mindedness sets it apart. Like with the AP curriculum, students may be able to receive college credit for the successful completion of IB courses, but policies vary depending on the institution.
What is the main difference between the IB Diploma Program and the AP Capstone Diploma?
In addition to the stark pedagogical differences, in many schools, AP courses are offered in 9th through 12th grades, meaning that students can stagger their Capstone requirements over their entire high school career. For example, you could take one of the four required AP courses each year, and take the Seminar and Research courses in either 10th and 11th grade, or 11th and 12th grade, respectively. This allows for a great deal of flexibility, as opposed to the IB Diploma Program, which requires students to take six courses simultaneously in both 11th and 12th grades.
What are A-Levels?
A-Levels, offered in the British education system, present a more tailored approach, offering a pathway for students to seek specialization and expertise in their specific fields of interest. Over the course of about two years, students prepare for their examinations by choosing three or four subjects for in-depth study, allowing them to explore their chosen disciplines thoroughly. Students can also elect to take the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) after taking 3 A-Levels, allowing them to conduct independent research on a project of their choosing that will enhance their knowledge and boost their resume at both universities and vocational jobs.
The A-Level examinations themselves require a considerable amount of writing, and students should keep this in mind as they prepare. As with any testing path, students should research institutional requirements at their target school, as some have specific disciplinary expectations for students applying to particular majors.
When choosing A-Levels, students should consider the following factors:
1. Interest and Skill Set
It’s crucial for students to select subjects they are genuinely interested in and have an aptitude for. A-Levels require a significant investment of time and effort, so studying subjects that align with their passions and strengths can make the learning experience more enjoyable and rewarding. Additionally, students should consider how their chosen subjects might relate to their future career aspirations or academic pursuits.
2. Academic and Professional Goals
Students should research the A-Level requirements for their desired university courses or future career paths. Some universities and employers may have specific subject requirements or preferences, so it’s essential that students choose A-Levels that align with their goals. Students should also consider the potential impact of their A-Level choices on their future options, such as whether certain subjects are prerequisites for particular degree programs or professions.
3. Complementary Disciplines
When choosing A-Levels, students should consider subjects that complement each other. For example, if a student is interested in studying engineering at university, taking A-Levels in Mathematics and Physics would be beneficial as they provide essential skills and knowledge for the field.
Top Colleges that Accept A-Levels for College Credit
Bard College:
Bard College allows students to transfer up to 32 credits (a full year) for students who received an A or A* on A-Level examinations. [Source]
Boston University:
Boston University offers credit for students who received an A, B, or C on A-Levels in some subjects. [Source]
Carnegie Mellon University:
Carnegie Mellon offers credit for students who received an A or B on A-Levels in some subjects. [Source]
Cornell University:
Cornell offers credit for students who received an A on A-Levels in some subjects. Students should refer to specific program pages for further information. [Source]
Dartmouth College:
Dartmouth offers credit for students who received an A on A-Levels in some subjects. [Source]
Duke University:
Duke offers credit for students who received an A or B on A-Levels in some subjects. [Source]
Stanford University:
Stanford offers credit for students who received an A or B on A-Levels in some subjects, permitting up to 45 quarter units of credit toward the undergraduate degree. The amount of credit awarded varies by subject. [Source]
University of Chicago:
UChicago offers credit for students who received an A or A* on the A-Level Biology exam. [Source]
University of Michigan:
UMich offers advanced standing or up to one year of credit for A-Levels with a grade of D or better. [Source]
University of Pennsylvania:
UPenn offers credit for students who received an A or A* on some A-Level examinations (with a B accepted for the Physics exam). [Source]
University of Chicago:
UChicago accepts AP exams with scores of 5 for credit (with the exception of AP Calculus BC, for which students can earn credit with a score of 4 or higher). [Source]
University of Texas at Austin:
UT Austin offers credit for scores ranging from 4 to 7 in some subjects. [Source]
For more information about schools that accept A-Level examination scores and how credit transfers work, see this extensive list from Cambridge International!
Note: This is a curated rather than comprehensive list. Students should research the policies of each school on their list for further information.
Distinguishing Factors Between AP, IB, and A-Levels
1. Depth of Curriculum
Of all of the programs, AP tends to be the most broad in its subject matter. IB strikes a balance between breadth and depth, encouraging students to engage with multiple subjects while fostering critical thinking skills. Conversely, A-Levels offer significant curricular depth, allowing students to specialize in a limited number of subjects and develop expertise in their chosen fields.
2. Assessment Methods
AP courses culminate in standardized exams, providing a quantitative measure of student performance that is graded on a 1–5 scale. IB employs a multifaceted assessment approach, combining coursework, globally standardized examinations, and research projects or presentations.
End-of-year IB exams typically come in two to three parts—called Papers 1, 2 and 3—and are usually taken over a two day period. AP exams are taken in one day. Another major difference between AP and IB is that you can register and sit for AP exams without being enrolled in AP courses, but you must be enrolled in IB classes in order to sit for IB exams. In theory, you could enroll in IB courses and sit for both IB and AP exams, but as mentioned above, this is not recommended, as taking either AP or IB classes allows you to learn the theories and methods specific to AP and IB, and prepare you for their respective final exams.
3. Skills Focus
AP focuses on subject-specific knowledge and the development of analytical and problem-solving skills. IB places a strong emphasis on critical thinking, research skills, and intercultural understanding, while A-Levels prioritize in-depth knowledge and mastery of specific subjects.
4. Subject Matter Flexibility
The IB program presents the least individualized path, as it is a pre-structured, holistic curriculum, with the exception of elective courses. Students cannot take IB examinations without going through the IB program, and the program itself is oriented toward the overall development of a student. Conversely, the AP curriculum allows flexibility both in choosing subjects to study and in allowing students the option to test without taking AP courses.
The AP, IB, or A-Levels will likely be a student’s first foray into college-level coursework, and as such, the choice is an important stepping stone for a student’s college career. Certain factors may limit a student’s choices—such as their high school not offering IB or being located in the US and therefore not offering A-Levels. However, for students who have a choice, career aspirations, learning styles, university requirements, and personal interests should all play pivotal roles in this decision-making process.
If one thrives in a specialized and focused academic environment, A-Levels might be the right fit. For those who enjoy a holistic and interdisciplinary approach, IB could be the ideal choice. Meanwhile, AP offers flexibility for exploration and the opportunity to tailor one’s academic journey to their individual interests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do colleges prefer AP or IB?
If you have an idea of the colleges or universities you’d like to apply to, do some research to determine whether or not they have a preference for AP or IB classes or diplomas. Some universities give preference to one or the other. If this is the case, taking the preferred courses may bolster your chances for admission. Others do not have one preference over another. Most colleges simply want to see that students chose to challenge themselves to the best of their abilities relative to the course offerings available to them.
Once you get to college, you may be able to apply high AP or IB scores for college credit. Most schools accept either AP or IB of a high enough score for college credit, while others only accept one or the other. You may want to determine whether or not the schools you plan to apply to have core requirements for graduation, and if you can apply AP or IB credit to fulfill these requirements. Testing out of core requirements can be beneficial in allowing you to take more classes in your major or department, spread out your major requirements over four years, or graduate early.
What AP or IB exam scores should I report to colleges?
Typically, students should report scores of 4 and above on AP exams and 5 and above on IB exams. That being said, some schools require that students submit complete records of their testing history along with their application. If this is not the case, some students may choose to only report the scores that will earn them college credit. Depending on the school’s policy, scores that qualify for credit are a 4 or better on the AP and 5 or better on IB exams. Note that these policies vary by institution.
Can you take both IB and AP courses?
Depending on school policies, students can technically take AP and IB classes at the same time if their school offers both programs. Depending on the student’s strengths and weaknesses and interests, it may make sense to take a mix of AP and IB courses, as opposed to enrolling in the full IB Diploma Program. Some students also choose to enroll in the IB Diploma Program and in one or two additional AP courses, particularly if they have additional interests they can not explore through the IB Diploma Program. However, the IB Diploma Program is quite intensive, and students who enroll in the entire program may not want to take AP classes in addition to their rigorous course load, but rather explore their interests independently through self study or in a summer course. Students should consult their advisor or college counselor for more personalized advice regarding AP and IB enrollment.
What are the differences between AP, IB, and A-Levels?
AP is more broad in its focus, allowing students to take select courses in their areas of interest. Similarly, A-Levels allow students to explore their interests by studying for exams in their field, though the A-Levels require a more intensive 2-year sequence of study. IB is the most restrictive and programmatic of the three options, with students taking a holistic curriculum oriented toward both academic and personal growth.
