As the Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate testing season approaches, students reflect on their experiences in both programs, weighing the challenges, benefits, and differences. While both offer rigorous coursework and the opportunity to earn college credit, they cater to distinct learning styles and academic goals.
For some students, like current AP student Camilla Walsh, the decision to take AP courses over IB was straightforward.
“I took AP over IB because my older brother had taken IB, and I had previously taken MYP classes, which were not my favorite format,” Walsh said. “A lot of AP is taking notes, testing, and repeating.”
AP courses are structured primarily around exams, focusing on content mastery and test performance. While the fast-paced nature of AP courses can be demanding, some students prefer this approach over IB’s emphasis on essays and long-term projects. One of the key advantages of AP is its independent course structure. Each class functions separately, allowing students to focus on individual subjects rather than committing to a comprehensive program.
“Perks of being in AP include the ability to choose specific subjects rather than being locked into an entire program,” Walsh said. “It seems to be more test-based, whereas IB is more writing-based.”
Students who opted for IB appreciate its depth, interdisciplinary approach, and emphasis on critical thinking. Lee Weldon, a full IB student, described the unique structure of the program. “Full IB takes place over two years, so a lot of the tests are debatably harder than AP tests, but there is much more time to prepare before taking them,” Weldon said.
Unlike AP courses, which culminate in a single exam, IB assessments include essays, projects, and oral presentations throughout the program. A defining characteristic of IB is its emphasis on real-world application.
“In my psychology class, I replicated a psychology experiment in another class,” Weldon said. “In my biology class, I will be performing my lab experiment.”
IB courses encourage students to apply their learning in practical contexts, which many find engaging and rewarding. However, IB also presents significant challenges, particularly in terms of workload.
“My advice to juniors would be to stop procrastinating,” Weldon said. “It seems to be some IB curse, but everyone procrastinates. The workload is really heavy at some points, but it is important not to fall too far behind.”
Both AP and IB students enter their respective programs expecting demanding coursework, but the reality of each experience differs.
For students considering AP or IB, those with experience offer valuable advice.
“Take the classes and challenge yourself. It should not be scary,” Walsh said.
AP courses can provide an excellent opportunity for students to push themselves academically while maintaining flexibility in their course selections. For IB students, time management is a critical skill.
“The workload can be overwhelming at times, but do not let it pile up. Staying on top of assignments is key,” Weldon said.
Ultimately, the choice between AP and IB depends on a student’s individual learning style and academic goals. AP is ideal for those who prefer a structured, exam-focused approach with the ability to pick and choose subjects. In contrast, IB is better suited for students who enjoy writing, interdisciplinary connections, and applying their knowledge to real-world problems. Regardless of which path students choose, both programs demand dedication, hard work, and perseverance. With the right mindset and preparation, students in either AP or IB can find success and enrichment in their academic journey.
