Post‑16: IB Diploma (IB DP) vs Cambridge AS & A Levels
| Aspect | IB DP | A Levels |
|---|---|---|
| Subjects studied | 6 subjects (3 HL, 3 SL) across disciplines | Typically 3–4 subjects for deep specialisation |
| Core requirements | TOK, EE, CAS (mandatory) | No compulsory core (enrichment varies by school) |
| Assessment mix | Final exams + substantial Internal Assessments (IAs) | Mainly final exams; some coursework in specific subjects |
| Breadth vs depth | Breadth: balanced spread | Depth: early specialisation |
| Grading | 1–7 per subject; diploma out of 45 incl. up to 3 core points | Grades A*–E |
| Workload pattern | Continuous deadlines (IAs, EE, CAS) + exams | Exam peak at end; fewer ongoing deadlines |
| Who often thrives | All‑rounders; strong time managers; project/writing‑inclined | Subject specialists; exam‑strong; clear degree targets |
| University recognition | Global; holistic profile valued | Global; depth and mastery prized |
Which is harder at post‑16?
IB can feel harder if juggling multiple moving parts (IAs + TOK/EE/CAS) and sustained research/writing is tough.
A Levels can feel harder if deep conceptual mastery in fewer—but intensive—subjects and terminal exam pressure are the challenge.
Rule of thumb: IB = breadth + continuous assessment; A Levels = depth + terminal exams.
Pre‑16: IB MYP vs Cambridge IGCSE
| Aspect | MYP | IGCSE |
|---|---|---|
| Curriculum design | Concept & inquiry‑led framework; schools map content to objectives | Subject syllabuses with defined aims, content, assessment |
| Assessment style | Ongoing, criteria‑based tasks; Personal Project; some ePortfolio | Externally set, standardised exams; coursework in some subjects |
| Workload pattern | Steady continuous tasks across subjects | Workload spikes near exam sessions; heavy past‑paper practice |
| Grading | 1–7 per subject (criteria bands) | A*–G or 9–1 (board/subject dependent) |
| Who often thrives | Project/writing/reflective learners | Students who like clear outlines, exam technique, measurable progress |
Which is harder at pre‑16?
MYP can feel harder if managing ongoing projects and reflections is tough.
IGCSE can feel harder if timed exam performance is the main stressor.
Key Terms to Know
HL/SL = Higher/Standard Level (depth & hours)
TOK = critical thinking about knowledge
EE = 4,000‑word research paper
CAS = co‑curricular experiences with reflection
IA = internally assessed coursework, externally moderated
AS/A Level = Year 12/Year 13 components of full A Level
Grade boundaries = per‑session mark cut‑offs that vary yearly
Myths vs Realities
Myth
Universities prefer one path.
Reality
Both are highly regarded; grades, subjects and rigour matter most.
Myth
IB is always harder.
Reality
Challenges differ: IB breadth & coursework vs A Level depth & exams.
How to Choose
- Assessment preference: continuous coursework & projects (IB/MYP) vs timed exams (A Levels/IGCSE)
- Learner profile: all‑rounder (IB routes) or specialist (A Levels)
- School delivery: where your school has the strongest results/experience
- University targets: confirm subject prerequisites (e.g., HL Maths vs A Level Further Maths)
Need help choosing?
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FAQs
Is IB harder than Cambridge A Levels?
Not inherently. IB emphasises breadth and continuous assessment (IAs, TOK, EE, CAS). A Levels emphasise depth and high‑stakes terminal exams.
Do universities prefer IB or A Levels?
Both are globally respected. Admissions look at grades, appropriate subject choices, and overall rigour more than the label.
Which path is better for STEM or Medicine?
Both work. For A Levels, Maths, Chemistry, Biology/Physics are common. In IB, choose HL Maths and relevant sciences. Always check university prerequisites.
For pre‑16, is MYP harder than IGCSE?
It depends. MYP spreads workload via projects and criteria‑based tasks; IGCSE concentrates pressure into externally assessed exams.
Can a student move from IGCSE to IB DP?
Yes. Many students complete IGCSEs then start IB DP. Schools may set entry criteria for HL subjects.
Is the 9–1 grading the same in IGCSE and GCSE?
Yes, it’s the same scale. Exact grade boundaries vary by subject, board and session.
Final Thoughts
Choose the pathway that matches your child’s learning style, strengths, and goals—and your school’s expertise. With a good fit and steady support, students excel in both IB and Cambridge.
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