IB and AP Comparison

IB AP Comparison

AP Program

IB Program

National Standard of Excellence

International Standard of Excellence

College level courses

Comprehensive curriculum of college level work

Encourages academically talented and highly motivated students

AP exams test what the student knows.

IB exams concentrate on the analysis of what the student knows.

Students generally take AP exams in the areas of strengths.

One exam in each of the six different subject areas is required for the IB Diploma. Students must prepare in all areas, those of strengths as well as weaknesses.

Students do not have to be enrolled in an authorized school.

Students must be enrolled in an authorized IB school.

Exams are graded externally through Educational Testing Services (ETS) and student marks are assigned.

Scores include teacher assessments as well as external assessments constructed and graded by educators from throughout the world.

Exams are based on specific content of courses with objective questions and essays.

Exams are based on broad general understanding of concepts and fundamental themes; questions emphasize essay writing.

Oral exam in foreign language

Oral assessment in English, foreign language, and other disciplines

Policies are determined by national educators.

Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge, Creativity, Action and Service

Policies are determined by international educators.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Director of Admissions: “Send us prepared students a la IB … it is the best high school prep curriculum an American school can offer.”