Question 1

What is the IB exam and how is it different from AP?

Accepted Answer

The IB (International Baccalaureate) is a comprehensive two-year diploma programme with six subjects plus core components (TOK, EE, CAS). AP (Advanced Placement) consists of individual college-level courses and exams. IB offers a holistic education with internal assessments counting 20-25% of grades, while AP is purely exam-based. Both are rigorous and respected by universities worldwide.

Question 2

Is IB harder than A-Levels or AP?

Accepted Answer

Difficulty depends on the student. IB is broader, requiring six subjects plus core components, making time management challenging. A-Levels allow deeper focus on 3-4 subjects. AP courses vary in difficulty by subject. Many find IB more demanding overall due to its breadth and the Extended Essay/TOK requirements, but A-Level depth can be equally challenging in specific subjects.

Question 3

What grade is 75% in IB? Is 90% a 7?

Accepted Answer

IB grade boundaries vary by subject and exam session, but typically: 75% falls in the grade 5-6 range. A grade 7 usually requires 80%+ on most subjects, though some subjects have lower boundaries. The 90% threshold would almost certainly be a 7 in any subject. Check the IBO grade boundaries for your specific subjects after each session.

Question 4

Does Harvard prefer IB or AP?

Accepted Answer

Top universities like Harvard, MIT, and Stanford value rigorous coursework but do not officially prefer one over the other. They look for students who challenge themselves with the most demanding curriculum available at their school. IB students should aim for 40+ points; AP students should take 5+ AP courses with scores of 4-5.

Question 5

Which AP classes are the hardest?

Accepted Answer

Based on pass rates and student reports, the most challenging AP exams include: AP Physics C (both Mechanics and E&M), AP Chemistry, AP Calculus BC, AP US History, and AP English Literature. However, difficulty is subjective and depends on your strengths.

Question 6

Is 27 or 28 a bad IB score?

Accepted Answer

A score of 27-28 is above the passing threshold (24) and represents solid achievement. The global average is around 30-31 points. While 27-28 may limit options at highly selective universities, it opens doors to many excellent institutions.

Question 7

How long should I study for IB or AP exams?

Accepted Answer

For IB: Start revision 2-3 months before exams, with intensive study in the final 4-6 weeks. Plan 2-3 hours daily during the revision period. For AP: Begin 6-8 weeks before exam dates, increasing intensity as exams approach. Use past papers extensively.

Question 8

How important are Internal Assessments in IB?

Accepted Answer

IAs contribute 20-25% of your final grade in most IB subjects. Unlike exams, you have time to perfect your IA with teacher guidance. Strong IAs can boost borderline grades and provide a safety net if exams do not go as planned.

University	IB Score	AP Scores	Notes
Harvard	40+	4-5 on 5+ exams	Holistic review, no preference stated
MIT	42+	5s preferred	STEM focus, rigorous coursework valued
Stanford	40+	4-5 on multiple	Values both equally
Oxford	38-40	5s with SAT/ACT	IB widely accepted, AP with testing
Cambridge	40-42	Case-by-case	Strong IB preference

Exam Preparation That Gets Results

Choose Your Exam System

IB Mock Exams

Internal Assessment Support

Subject-Specific Revision

Core Components

Understanding Grades and Scores

IB Grade Boundaries (Typical)

AP Score Meanings

What Top Universities Expect

How to Prepare for Exams

Start Early

Use Past Papers

Know the Criteria

Active Recall

Manage Your Time

Get Feedback

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the IB exam and how is it different from AP?

Is IB harder than A-Levels or AP?

What grade is 75% in IB? Is 90% a 7?

Is a 70 a 5 on the AP exam?

Which AP classes are the hardest?

Does Harvard prefer IB or AP? What about other top universities?

Is 27 or 28 a bad IB score?

How long should I study for IB or AP exams?

How important are Internal Assessments in IB?

What are your exam preparation packages?

Internal Assessments Count for 20-25% of Your Grade

IB IA Weighting by Subject Group

Ready to Achieve Your Target Grades?