As your child stands at the crossroads of their educational journey, two prominent options lay before them: A-levels and the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. Each offers a distinct path to academic success and personal growth. It’s a significant decision to make and it can seriously determine where and what you go on to study at university/college.

In this blog post, we’ll delve into the main differences between these two options to help you make an informed decision about your next steps.

1. Structure and Subjects:

A-levels:

A-levels offer a specialized approach, allowing you to choose a smaller number of subjects to study in depth. You’ll typically select three to four subjects related to your interests and future goals. This focused approach lets you delve deeply into your chosen subjects, making you a specialist in those areas. However, it may pigeon hole you into an area where you later find that you don’t enjoy.

IB:

The IB program is renowned for its comprehensive curriculum that covers a broader range of subjects. You’ll study six subjects, including languages, sciences, mathematics, humanities, and the arts, offering a more well-rounded education. Additionally, IB includes the unique Theory of Knowledge (TOK) course, which encourages critical thinking about the nature of knowledge. This board approach does, however, force students to continue pursuing subjects they may be particularly weak in, such as Maths and languages.

2. Assessment and Exams:

A-levels:

Assessment in A-levels is typically exam-based, with your final grades determined by your performance in these exams. The exams are generally taken at the end of the two-year program. This format rewards your ability to demonstrate in-depth understanding and application of the subject matter. The International A-level examinations can take place at intervals over the course of the two years as some of them are Modular Exams.

IB:

IB assessment includes a combination of coursework, exams, and internally assessed tasks. The final IB diploma is awarded based on your performance across all subjects, including the Extended Essay – a 4,000-word research project – and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) requirements, promoting holistic development.

3. Flexibility vs. Breadth:

A-levels:

Choosing A-levels gives you the flexibility to focus solely on the subjects aligned with your career aspirations. If you have a clear vision of your desired field of study, A-levels allow you to specialize early on.

IB:

The IB program offers a broader educational experience, ideal for those who are undecided about their future path or who want to explore a range of subjects. IB encourages interdisciplinary thinking and fosters a more well-rounded perspective.

4. Global Recognition:

A-levels:

A-levels are widely recognized in the UK and many international universities. They are particularly well-suited if you have a specific university or course in mind and want to tailor your qualifications accordingly.

IB:

The IB diploma is internationally recognized and respected by universities around the world. Its comprehensive nature often signals to universities that applicants are well-rounded and prepared for higher education.

5. Time Commitment:

A-levels:

A-levels typically span two years of study. The focused approach allows you to delve deep into your chosen subjects but may require rigorous dedication to master the content.

IB:

The IB program spans two years as well, but its comprehensive curriculum may require effective time management and balancing various subjects and requirements.

In the end, the choice between A-levels and the IB program depends on your learning style, interests, and future aspirations. If you’re seeking specialization and a strong foundation in your chosen field, A-levels might be your ideal choice. If you value a diverse education and want to hone your critical thinking skills, the IB program could be the perfect fit.

As a Maths teacher…..

As a Maths teacher of 20 years, who has taught both A-levels and the IB, I have very mixed views on both curricula. As a father to a 7-year old boy, I know I will be offering my guidance to my son in the not too distant future about which curriculum to choose. If my son is weak academically or completely lacks time management skills, I would advise him against tackling the IB. If he was a high performing athlete with significant sporting demands, I would also advise him against the IB. That said, if my son proves to be academically strong and has demonstrated an ability to balance school, sporting and social commitments – then I would strongly urge him to tackle the IB.

My humble opinion….

In my humble opinion, I feel the IB is far more demanding than A-levels overall. According to research (which I don’t have linked here unfortunately), IB students have a far lower university drop out rate than A-level students at UK universities. This can be attributed to the fact that they are used to working quite hard in the IB. It must also be noted that it appears to be easier to gain entry to UK universities with A-levels than IB, from my experience.

Last thoughts….

A final point for your child – if they do decide to choose A-levels, please ensure the 3 or 4 subjects are not too specific or similar to each other. Yes, A-levels is great for specialization but if your child discovers that Maths, Physics and Computer Science is not as fun as they thought it would be, then their university options are now somewhat limited. A friend of mine studied English, Sociology and Psychology back in the day and she regretted how limiting her university options were. She wished she had chosen a language, or a science or even Business Studies just to mix it up!

Your thoughts….

What are your experiences with the IB or A-levels? What would you advise to your fellow parents who are struggling with which curriculum to choose? Please comment below.