IB vs. AP
Both Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) programs offer your children the opportunity to undertake college-level coursework in high school with a chance to earn college credit and advanced placement. Both are rigorous, high-level programs with academic requirements that are more demanding than those found in a typical high school curriculum.
But is one better than the other? How are they different? Do they have any similarities? And do colleges and universities prefer one over the other? Which one poses the greatest benefits to your children?
To address these questions, we’ve enlisted the help of outside sources and experts within the Concordia International School Shanghai community to give an in-depth look at each of these powerhouse programs.
What is AP?
The AP Program is offered by the College Board, the organization which develops and administers the SAT, the standardized college admission test for the U.S. and Canada. The program offers courses covering a range of subject areas.
AP courses are single level, and therefore, provide enough flexibility for students to take any combination of courses depending on their schedules and goals.
At Concordia, our AP Program is rigorous and gives our students a taste of what they will face in university. Though the courses are elective, students who demonstrate interest and initiative in related subjects prior to selecting the AP, are encouraged to consider taking the program.
Learner Profile of an AP Student
What exactly does it take for your children to thrive in an AP program? What characteristics do they need to embody?
“An AP learner enjoys an academic challenge, and is not afraid to work hard. They are prepared to handle high-level academic content successfully and are disciplined enough to manage their personal life and their social life, with the requirements and rigor of college-level demands. They are invested in their future and are often willing to make sacrifices to achieve their academic and professional goals,” says Monica Ghicu, AP Coordinator at Concordia.
Students who choose to study the AP are:
Empowered to be lifelong learners
Adaptable and independent thinkers
Globally minded and have the ability to make connections
Academically ethical
Inquiry driven
Motivated and dedicated to school work, extra reading, and research
Responsible individuals capable of multitasking, prioritizing activities, and working to a deadline
Prepared and organized
Proficient in reading and writing
