- Grimsley High School
- AP v. IB: What is the Difference?
AP / IB Overview
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What is the difference between AP and IB?
IB is a program of study that includes the core of IB--the extended essay (a 4000 word independent research project), CAS (creativity, activity, and service hours), and completion of a course entitled Theory of Knowledge (TOK).
Additionally, IB scores extend over the length of the course and include projects, presentations, one-on-one oral commentaries with the teacher, and out-of-class essays in addition to the final IB exam, an open-ended, essay-based exam.
AP scores are based on the final exam, which consists of multiple choice questions and open-ended questions/essays.
IB
AP
Program
Students must take 7 IB courses (6 academic courses and TOK); Must complete the Extended Essay and CAS; Take a range of HL and SL courses; Take courses in all content areas
Students can take as many or as few college-level courses as they want
College Credit
Beginning in 2020-21, IB students attending UNC System universities will automatically receive credit for IB Higher Level examinations with a score of 4 or higher and IB Standard Level examinations with a score of 5 or higher
On average, NC colleges accept scores of a 4+ (3 is considered passing), but like IB, universities vary in their awarding of credit
Range
Range of topics and content areas in-depth, with a focus on skills used in obtaining content
Specialize in certain areas to gain content mastery for introductory college classes
Assessment
Score range of 1-7; Includes written and oral assessments during the year and an open-ended final exam in May; Exam components completed over multiple days
Score range of 1-5; Includes one multiple choice and essay-based test in May; Exam components completed in one day
College Preparation
IB Core focuses on teaching skills: balancing all program components develops time management; research and writing is a focus in all areas, teaches advanced-level courses and content
Taking multiple courses develops time management; some form of writing and free response required in all areas; teaches advanced-level courses and content