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Preparing for college: IB vs. AP classes

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Getting ready for college is an exciting — and often question-filled — stage. One of the first questions you might ask is, “What classes should I take?” After all, the classes you take can have an impact on grades, college acceptances, and interests.

On top of looking great on college applications, some advanced classes give you college credit — saving time and money later on. Let’s break it down.

You can take two types of college-level classes in high school: AP and IB. They’re both challenging and meant to push high school students academically, so it’s understandable if you don’t know which type to take. IB classes are focused on teaching students to be critical thinkers and good global citizens. On the other hand, AP classes simulate actual college classes and dive deep into one subject at a time.

Review the information below to decide which one is right for you.

What is an IB class?

Let’s face it — the real world is full of acronyms. And that starts with college prep. IB classes mean International Baccalaureate classes. These classes teach critical thinking skills and have a global focus since they’re taught all over the world.

There are two options when it comes to IB classes: the IB diploma program or individual IB courses. The IB diploma program consists of several classes in different subjects that students take. Upon completion, these students graduate with an IB diploma. This program includes three mandatory courses — theory of knowledge, the extended essay, and creativity, activity, and service. Students receive up to 7 points for each class and need at least 24 points to receive the diploma.

Pro tip: You can still take individual IB courses even if you don’t pursue the diploma program.

Examples of IB classes

Theory of knowledge
The extended essay
Creativity, activity, and service
Language and literature
Information technology in a global society
Psychology
History
Global politics
Biology
Mathematics: analysis and approaches
Music

What is an AP class?

AP, or Advanced Placement classes, are much more common in the United States than IB classes. Nevertheless, most American colleges consider both to be excellent college prep programs and grant college credit for the classes.

Let’s back up. What are AP courses? AP courses are run like college courses so students can adjust to the rigor of college and receive credit toward a future degree. Each class is a deep dive into one particular subject, such as psychology or statistics.

Colleges award credit for AP classes based on the student’s score on the end-of-year exam. The exams are scored out of 5, and credit is typically awarded to students who score a 3 or above.

Examples of AP classes

English language and composition
United States history
Macroeconomics
Microeconomics
Calculus
Statistics
Biology
Chemistry
Environmental science
French
Spanish

What are the similarities and differences between AP and IB classes?

If you’re thinking, “What’s the difference between IB vs. AP classes?” or “Is IB or AP harder?” — Don’t worry. We’ve got you covered.

Here are the similarities and differences you actually need to know about.

Similarities

Rigorous coursework: Both AP and IB classes simulate college-level classes, so expect them to be equally difficult.
Eligible for college credit: Most colleges award college credit for AP tests with a score of 3 or higher. Similarly, most colleges award college credit for IB courses . However, some schools only grant credit for a completed IB diploma — so it’s important to research what you’ll need to get credit at different schools.
Paid tests: Students can take AP or IB exams at the end of the school year. Each exam costs between $75 and $120, depending on the subject.

Differences

AP classes are more common: Not every school offers AP or IB classes, but you’re much more likely to find schools that offer AP classes in the United States.
Anyone can take AP tests: AP tests are optional and available to anyone — meaning that you can take the exam even if you didn’t take the class or decide not to take the exam even if you did.
IB offers a diploma program: The IB diploma program is a holistic curriculum and includes several subjects, whereas AP classes are a la carte.
IB courses have a global focus: The IB curriculum was created to teach critical thinking and global awareness, so many of the classes incorporate those themes.

How to choose between IB and AP classes

Only you can decide whether IB or AP classes are right for you! However, if your school offers both and you’re looking for guidance, here are a few things to consider.

AP classes might be better if you're interested in specific subjects. Why? The IB diploma program requires taking multiple advanced subjects. You could always take individual IB courses; however, not all colleges accept them for credit.

However, the IB diploma program might be right for you if you’re interested in international studies or want to take advanced courses in multiple subject areas.

Pro tip: Meet with your school’s guidance counselor to learn which classes your school offers. Knowing what subjects are available may impact your decision.

How to enroll

Each high school may have a slightly different method for enrolling students in AP or IB classes. Check with your school’s guidance counselor and teachers to learn about the process — it may involve an application or sign-up sheet. Either way, you’ll likely have to complete online enrollment once your school assigns you to each class.

If you plan to take classes at home or online, follow the instructions given by AP or IB course providers.

4 benefits of taking these classes in high school

While taking advanced classes is something to be incredibly proud of, it does much more than provide a sense of accomplishment. It sets you up for success — academically and financially.

1. Offset college costs 💸

Perhaps the number one reason to take advanced classes is to offset the cost of college. According to College Board , the annual average tuition and fees are $38,070 for private colleges and between $10,740 and $27,560 for public colleges, depending on whether you’re in-state or out-of-state.

Credit for AP and IB classes = fewer college classes to pay for 💰

Greenlight tip: Learn how much college costs and how financial aid can help — so you ask the right questions on college tours. Or take it a step further. Start to save for college with a 529 plan.

2. Graduate early 🎓

Starting college with AP and IB credits can help you qualify as a second-semester first-year student — or even as a second-year student. That means you can graduate early or take a lighter class load each semester.

3. Improve your college applications 🏛️

Want your college applications to stand out? Taking advanced classes is one way to do that. It shows you’re ready to succeed in college-level courses.

Plus, it’s a great way to demonstrate your interests. Suppose you’re applying to be a pre-med student. In that case, succeeding in AP biology and AP chemistry may help show that you’re excited and prepared for future science classes.

4. Adjust to college-level courses early 📚

Going to college is a big and very exciting adjustment. Knowing what type of coursework and exams to expect takes some of the pressure off and will help you feel confident heading into college.

Alternatives to AP or IB courses

Only some schools offer AP or IB courses. If yours doesn’t, that’s okay. There are other ways to take advanced classes.

Here are a few common alternatives:

Dual enrollment courses: Many high schools partner with local community colleges to offer dual enrollment courses. In a dual enrollment class, students may travel to the community college, or the professor may come to the high school. Either way, high school students are taught as college students.
Community college classes: You may be able to take community college classes even if your high school doesn’t offer dual enrollment. Speak with your guidance counselor about how to apply to a local community college. They may be able to help arrange your schedule so that you can take a couple of college classes during the day. Remember to research which colleges will award credit for the community college classes. It’s possible that some schools won’t accept the classes for credit, especially if they’re in another state.
Online coursework: You can take many AP or IB classes online. So if your school doesn’t offer them, you may be able to take AP or IB classes at home or during a free period. Check with your guidance counselor to see if a free or independent study period is available so you can take the classes during the school day.
Honors classes: Taking AP, IB, or community college courses isn’t always an easy option if your school doesn’t offer them. If the alternatives above aren’t for you, don’t sweat it. Take honors classes instead. Honors classes are more advanced than on-level classes and will show colleges you’re serious about academics. You can also look for other ways to make your college applications stand out, including clubs, leadership positions, volunteer work, and sports.

Get college-ready with Greenlight

It’s no secret that a lot goes into getting ready for college. So whether you decide to take IB or AP classes, don’t worry. Either one will set you up for success and teach you what taking a college class is like.

Next up: college finances. With Greenlight, parents earn cash back, and teens learn to manage money — so everyone is ready for the next phase of life.