International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme 2025 Guide

International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme: Subjects, HL & SL Explained

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme is a professional curriculum made up of the DP core and six subject groups. These examinations have high levels of objectivity and reliability. The IB Diploma Programme ((IBDP) is a two-year pre- university course, especially for students aged 16-19 - typically in Grades 11-12). It is recognized globally for its academic value and high-end facilities. It further encourages students to be more curious and provide them global exposure.

To begin with, students must choose one subject from each of the six groups. Let us check out IB Subject Groups as given in the table below:

IB Subject Groups

What’s the difference between HL vs SL?

In IB DP guide, every IB student has to opt for 6 subjects:

● 3 (or 4) at Higher Level (HL)
● 3 (or 2) at Standard Level (SL)

- HIGHER LEVEL (HL)
It includes more topics, internal assessments, essays and lab assignments. Moreover, prepares the students for specific IB courses and IB exam structure. Covers more than 240 teaching hours for in-depth study and content analysis.

- STANDARD LEVEL (SL)
It mostly covers essential concepts which require less depth. It is a balanced approach for students who are focused on the other areas of study. Covers more than 150 teaching hours which is slightly more relaxed comparatively.

How to Choose Your HL and SL subjects?

To build a combination of subjects, students are advised to consider strength, interest and future university goals:

Step 1: Consider your strengths
Firstly, choose subjects that you enjoy thoroughly as this will allow you to spend double time on them. However, for complex subjects, students can always choose IB tuition.

Step 2: Match HLs to your university course Students take into consideration specific HL subjects based on the intended course or university.

Medicine/ Biology: Chemistry or biology as IB HL subjects
Engineering: Math AA, Chemistry or Physics as IB HL subjects
Computer Science: Computer Science and Math AA as IB HL subjects
Economics/ Business: Business Management, Economics and Math AA as recommended HLs
International Relations/ Law: Global Politics, English and History as HL subjects
Psychology: English, Biology and Psychology as major HL subjects
Architecture/ Art: Design Technology and Visual Arts as HLs
An IB online tutor can guide you through the aspects of selecting the right topics.

Expert Tips for IB Students

● Choose your HLs wisely: Consider the subjects on the basis of your own interests.
● Balance interest with management: Usually, three HLs are easy to manage, four as an added subject.
● Be consistent: HLs need consistent efforts thereby choosing subjects that allow you to stay focused.
● Implement strategy: Utilise SLs strategically in a way that allows you to give yourself some lighter days.
● Keep in mind your core (EE, TOK, CAS): Remember your core as they make it to the total count on your final diploma score.
● For different subjects, choose to hire professional assistance such as an IB Math online tutor.

Core Components (Compulsory for All Students)

The IB DP further includes three core elements that add on to the critical thinking and personal growth requirement:

1) EE (Extended Essay): It is a 4,000-word independent research paper that teaches academic writing and deep research.
2) TOK (Theory of Knowledge): This is a class revolving around the fundamentals of “how we know what we know.” Further builds critical thinking and philosophical reasoning.
3) CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service): This is extracurricular engagement which encourages balance, creativity and social responsibility.

Scoring System

● Each subject is graded 1-7 (wherein 7 is the highest point).
● The core components usually add up to 3 extra points.
● The total score achievable is 45 points.
● Generally, the diploma can be received in case you earn a minimum of 24
points with the conditions given: HL, SL and core components.

What are IB Diploma Benefits?

Let us now check out the reasons IB DP is globally valued, as listed below:

a) IB DP is globally recognised by top universities worldwide and known for its outstanding academic achievements.
b) The IB HL subjects and IB SL subjects encourage time management, critical analysis and in-depth research.
c) It allows students to thrive in international environments and explore diversity.
d) IB DP guide focuses strongly on well-rounded development rather than rote learning to transform students into more efficient students.

Everything you need to know about IB assessment

Generally, IB uses both internal and external assessments to measure the overall performance of the students:

● External: It holds about 70-80% of weightage and involves final examination at the end of the two-year course.
● Internal: Covers approximately 20-30% of weightage and includes oral presentations, essays, lab assessments and projects.

Note: Majority of the universities globally accept IB scores between 32-38 for admission.

Conclusion

As students delve into IB courses, they need to deeply understand IB HL subjects and IB SL subjects. At Baccalaureate Classes, we help students learn about the basics of IB courses. Founded in 2012, our institution encourages students to opt high-quality tutoring services to students enrolled in IB DP, IB MYP, IB PYP and IGCSE courses.

Students can consider online tuitions as our IB online tutors are well trained in their respective subjects. For the local students residing in Gurgaon & Delhi, we provide face to face classroom tutoring at our academy. Whether you’re looking for an IB Economics tutor, our team of professionals can help you score better in IB Diploma Programme. So, your search for the best IB tutor ends here with Baccalaureate Classes. Visit our website for more information on the International Baccalaureate diploma programme.