I am planning on majoring in STEM (namely, neuroscience) in college/uni. I am enrolled in the IB diploma program at my school and am expected to start the program come August. However, since school ended, many people have told me that AP is better than IB for a few reasons. IB is harder to score in than AP. IB also sucks \GPA, a major factor in college applications. My parents and I don’t want a GPA lower than a 4.0, at the bare minimum. (our school has a weighted system. Also, my mom at least is hellbent on me getting like, a 4.5 or higher GPA, but I know that probably won’t happen). I’ve looked at multiple forums and seen how, in addition, IB is more holistic/humanities-based than AP. The AP, on the other hand, is better suited towards science. Now, I’m seriously thinking about dropping the IB diploma altogether and just switching to AP classes. Since my classes are confirmed, though, I’ll have to go through a heck ton of work in order to change my classes.
More on the GPA fiasco- I have a 4.2 GPA right now (for grades 10-12). I’m thinking about applying to UCs (+Stanford), as well as some other schools outside of California (ex. Yale, Brown, Baylor, Havard, etc.) The first years of most of my HL classes won’t be weighted by UCs, and one of my SL classes won’t be weighted by them at all (my other SL will be weighted, though). This will result in a significantly lower UC GPA than my peers, (who will be taking around 4-6 AP courses in their junior year) especially if I get a lower grade than expected in my classes. Keep in mind that this is just for UCs, and that my school weights all my IB courses, regardless of if they’re SL or HL.
I need help- in my case, AP or IB? I’m really stressed out now, as I’ve already been given summer homework for IB, and after telling multiple people about me in IB, they told me straightaway that I should be doing AP. I’m afraid that I will regret it later. D:
P.S. I’m not worried about ECs- just my grades. I am very involved in ECs already.
P.P.S. At this point, I need to do more college research, but I want to apply to mainly schools that are known for biology, as well as ivies. I will also apply for UCs. Basically, I just want to know how to get the most versatile GPA I can.
I know I sound a bit stressed, but I really am. :((
The UC’s weighted all my daughters’ SL and HL (both years) courses as well as TOK. Why do you think they won’t be? But remember, after 8 semesters of 10 and 11 grade weighting, it really doesn’t matter any more.
@VickiSoCal I looked on the UC Doorway site and looked at my school to see which classes would be weighted as honors. I found that the first years of three of my HLs and one of my SLs would not be weighted. Your daughters’ classes at their school were probably weighted differently.
I would focus less on the GPA and more on the courses. At DS’ school, STEM kids were less likely to do IBD so that they could double up on science and have more time for things like robotics (rather than the rigorous humanities and language classes.) Many took IB classes and AP classes depending on their interest.
Even if you do IBD with 2 sciences, you’ll have to invest quite a bit of time in papers, etc. I would suggest you look at the courses over 2 years and think about the workload to see how well it aligns with what you like.
Honestly–just pick the learning style that suits you best and the classes you like the best and go with it. We aren’t in Cali so I don’t have state specific advice for you. My D did IB and was accepted into engineering at every school where she applied: Purdue, Clemson, University of Texas, Texas A&M, University of Pittsburgh, Northeastern and U of Alabama. She did make sure she had AP Calc BC on her resume though.
She had peers who took all traditional AP classes and they were not accepted into engineering at their schools but that is probably more of a reflection on their slightly lower class rank and test scores.
You should do IB because the learning style and the curriculum suit you–NOT because you think it will look good on your college apps. IB is suited specifically to the learner who doesn’t want to just take multiple choice tests and who is naturally curious and inquisitive and loves to debate and discuss.
@gardenstategal Thank you for the advice. At my school, we only have Chem, Bio (w/normal physio), Physics, Calc, and Stats as APs. On the other hand, Bio and Chem are my two science HLs. I’m forced into taking Lit/History HL as well. I think the real disadvantage I have is with math. I only have Math SL at my school, while Calc AB/BC is the higher form. I’m still taking the Calc AB exam end-of-year though, with IB Math.
I’m fine with the papers part, I’m very good at writing. I’m just worried about how it will look to colleges.
@carachel2 Thank you for your input. I’ve heard that IB kids have higher acceptance rates than the general population as well. I just don’t know what factors play a role in this. I’ve heard that schools filter out applications with a computer by GPA first, so I’m worried that my lowering GPA will be affected by this, especially the UCs. I know it will be just around the 4 range, but I’m wondering is that itself will make a statement.
I love learning and want to focus on it (that’s why I wanted to do IB in the first place), but this is also a priority. I don’t want colleges having only a mediocre GPA to see, understating the work I’d put into IB.
UC’s will weight AP’s and IB courses the same if they UC approved on your HS course list. As stated above, all UC’s cap the extra Honors points at 8 semesters except for UCLA and UCB which also uses Fully weighted UC GPA. Pick the best curriculum for you and not which one is better for any particular school admission.
@Gumbymom See, that’s the problem. On the Doorways site, where it states what classes are honors, not all semesters of IB are weighted by UCs at my school. I have no idea why, and it’s just stupid. It makes my grades feel inferior to those of an AP student, whose AP grades will be weighted either way. I know GPA isn’t the only thing colleges look at, but it IS the first filter in the application process. (That came from a father who has two kids in college right now.)
I’m more concerned, however, if IB is right for my predicted major- probably biological sciences or neuroscience, depending on my route. Like I said, its not the curriculum I’m worried about- it’s how others see the programs.
There are many HS’s in California that also have “Honors” Designated classes that are also not UC approved yet students still take these classes regardless of weighting to show HS course rigor. Putting the GPA issue aside, the UC’s do recognize that IB is a rigorous HS curriculum and HS course rigor is considered very important when you look at the common dataset for these schools.
Do not worry about how other’s see the programs, you pick the curriculum that best fits you and one that you will do well in which is far more important in the long run.
- Berkeley
- Very important: Academic GPA, Application essay, Rigor of secondary school record, Standardized test scores
- Important: Extracurricular activities, Volunteer work, Work experience
- Considered: Character/personal qualities, First generation college student, State residency
- Note: Thorough review of academic performance; likely contribution to intellectual and cultural vitality of the campus; diversity in personal background and experience; demonstrated qualities in leadership, motivation, concern for others and community; non-academic achievement in the performing arts, athletics or employment; demonstrated interest in major.
- LOR's by invitation only as of 2017
- Davis
- Very important: Academic GPA, Application essay, Rigor of secondary school record, Standardized test scores
- Important: Character/personal qualities, Extracurricular activities, Talent/ability, Volunteer work
- Considered: First generation college student, Geographical residence, State residency, Work experience
- Note: Scholastic achievement most important, followed by school and community activities, academic interests, special circumstances, special achievements and awards
- Irvine
- Very important: Academic GPA, Application essay, Extracurricular activities, Level of applicant's interest, Rigor of secondary school record, Standardized test scores, Talent/ability, Volunteer work, Work experience
- Important: Character/personal qualities, Class rank
- Considered: First generation college student, Geographical residence, State residency
- Note: Demonstrated record of academic preparation, educational engagement, talent and skills important.
- Los Angeles
- Very important: Academic GPA, Application essay, Rigor of secondary school record, Standardized test scores
- Important: Character/personal qualities, Extracurricular activities, Talent/ability, Volunteer work, Work experience
- Considered: First generation college student, Geographical residence
- Note: GPA, test scores, course work, number of and performance in honors and AP courses most important. Essay considered. Strong senior program important. Extracurricular activities, honors and awards also reviewed.
- Merced
- Very important: Academic GPA, Application essay, Rigor of secondary school record, Standardized test scores
- Important: Class rank, Extracurricular activities, Talent/ability
- Considered: Character/personal qualities, First generation college student, Geographical residence, Level of applicant's interest, Recommendations, State residency, Volunteer work, Work experience
- Note: Academic record and test scores determine eligibility.
- Riverside
- Very important: Academic GPA, Application essay, Rigor of secondary school record, Standardized test scores
- Considered: Character/personal qualities, Extracurricular activities, First generation college student, State residency, Talent/ability, Volunteer work, Work experience
- Note: A fixed weight point system comprehensive review model that culminates in an Academic Index Score to determine admission for incoming freshmen.
- San Diego
- Very important: Academic GPA, Application essay, Rigor of secondary school record, Standardized test scores
- Important: Character/personal qualities, Extracurricular activities, First generation college student, State residency, Talent/ability, Volunteer work, Work experience
- Note: High school course pattern, GPA, essay and test scores most important. Admission for out-of-state applicants more selective than for residents.
- Santa Barbara
- Very important: Academic GPA, Application essay, Rigor of secondary school record, Standardized test scores
- Considered: Character/personal qualities, Class rank, Extracurricular activities, First generation college student, Level of applicant's interest, State residency, Talent/ability, Volunteer work, Work experience
- Note: Eligibility established by high school GPA, course requirement, and SAT scores. Special consideration for disadvantaged students.
- Santa Cruz
- Very important: Academic GPA, Application essay, Rigor of secondary school record, Standardized test scores, State residency
- Important: Character/personal qualities, Extracurricular activities, First generation college student, Geographical residence, Talent/ability
- Considered: Volunteer work, Work experience
- Note: Test scores, GPA in required subjects most important. Personal statement very important.
@Gumbymom Thank you for the info. I understand your point. It’s just that IB isn’t as recognized as AP is (yet). I hope the UCs will notice the IB coursework.
A note: If it matters in this discussion, here are my ECs: I have a part-time job at a Kumon center, am part of my school’s Red Cross and Key Clubs (although not intensely committed), part of my school’s Speech and Debate team (very committed), am starting a club next year, and I have a passion for creative writing. I’m currently within the top 10% of my graduating class. I am the first in my family to complete school in the US, and the second (technically third) to go to college in the immediate family (after my dad, and my mom, who is going to community college). So I think they’re strong… for a rising junior. They will improve significantly over the school year.
But like I said, I’m more concerned if IB is right for my predicted major- probably biological sciences or neuroscience, depending on my route. Feedback from both AP and IB students, as well as parents of AP and IB kids on this subject are greatly appreciated!
I only have experience with AP since IB was not available at my son’s HS whom are both STEM majors. As stated above by other posters, the UC’s cap the honors points for the GPA at 8 semesters. UCLA/UCB are the only UC’s that also look at the Fully weighted UC GPA, so will you have 8 or more semesters of honors points by the end of Junior year? That will determine your application UC GPA.
UC’s will consider AP/IB on the same level in regards to HS course rigor. Regarding AP vs IB credit, you need to check the UC website and each UC campuses policy on awarding the credit. You can see which curriculum may give you more college credits toward your preferred majors.
http://admission.universityofcalifornia.edu/counselors/exam-credit/ib-credits/index.html
http://admission.universityofcalifornia.edu/counselors/exam-credit/ap-credits/index.html
@Gumbymom Thank you very much! I appreciate your help.
In terms of credits, I think I should be fine in everything except math, because with my HLs, I can get the 8 quarters of credit for each. (Plus, they give 30 quarter credits just for the diploma, which seems like a lot. Likely to make up for the lack of credits with HLs.) Math SL may be a problem, but our teacher makes us take the Calc AB exam as well at the end of the year. It’s only 4 credits though, so I’d have to take the Calc BC exam to get more credits (I also heard more math is good for a science major). And Spanish SL… I kinda don’t care. I took it because I needed to. XD
AP credits: 64 (assuming I take 10 APs over the course of junior and senior year) (Apparently you can only get 8 credits max for Calc AB/BC and Lang/Lit? That’s how I calculated this number.)
IB credits: 62 (assuming I take the full IB diploma)
Overall, it doesn’t seem like too large of a difference, in terms of credits. I’m fine with repeating certain things, and I think I’m OK with the minor difference in credits.
BUT- here’s my GPA’s (predicted, assuming I get all As. Each class [except for my 2 SLs] have 2 reported grades.
AP GPA: 64 (16 frosh grades) + 20+48 + 50+24 + 50+24 = 4.38 GPA <this is="" assuming="" i="" took="" 5="" ap="" classes="" in="" junior="" and="" senior="" year="" each,="" with="" there="" being="" 8="" year.="" all="" are="" considered="" for="" honors="" credit="" at="" ucs.="">
IB (weighted) GPA: 64 (16 frosh grades) + 20+48 + 50+20+16 + 50+20+16 = 4.47 GPA <this is="" assuming="" i="" take="" 4="" hls="" and="" 2="" sls="" (all="" weighted),="" plus="" a="" weighted="" tok.="" this="" results="" in="" more="" than="" the="" default="" 8="" courses="" at="" my="" school="" for="" junior="" senior="" year.="">
IB (UC) GPA: 64 (16 frosh grades) + 20+48 + 56+20 + 70+16 = 4.32 GPA <This is assuming that six of my HL grades are unweighted, as well as four of my SL grades, in addition to my electives)
Unweighted GPA: 3.90 GPA
Now that I look at it, it doesn’t really seem too bad. But it’s important to keep in mind that I may not get all As. (although I’ve only received 2 or so Bs so far, those being in a weighted honors class, so my record seems okay)
Also, I don’t think these numbers are especially accurate. It would be appreciated if someone could double check my derivations and calculations (add up all my points, divide by the number of grades reported). Keep in mind that I haven’t even accounted for the UC capped GPA yet, nor have I accounted for the community college class I am taking at the moment.
Otherwise, I think it looks good for IB. I’d still love feedback on how hard the tests are for each route, and which program is better for science.
Are you just including the a-g courses in your calculation? PE/Health etc… grades should not be included.
@Gumbymom If you insist… here are the calculations minus the non-UC classes.
AP GPA: 48 (12 frosh grades) + 20+32 + 50+16 + 50+16 = 4.46 GPA
IB (weighted) GPA: 48 (12 frosh grades) + 20+32 + 50+20+8 + 50+20+8 = 4.57 GPA
IB (UC) GPA: 48 (12 frosh grades) + 20+32 + 48+20 + 70+8 = 4.39 GPA
IB (UC capped) GPA: 4.11 (credit to RogerHub)
Unweighted: 3.96
Hope my calculations are correct…
Ouch. My UC GPA took a bigger hit this time, in terms of dropping from my IB GPA. But oddly enough, my academic GPAs actually went higher than if I had included PE, Health, etc. Maybe it’s because those extra 4s were weighing it down.
Hope this helps.
I am not insisting, just asking. Also I do not see that big of a difference in GPA’s. Both are competitive so again I suggest you pick the program that best fits your interests and needs.
Stanford’s position on IB
https://youtu.be/gS4BUi3Exog
@Gumbymom Sorry if it came off as rude. Thank you very much for your help.
@nw2this Thank you for sharing the video! As Stanford is one of the schools I’m interested in, it was definitely a helpful input.
Just noticed that I didn’t omit my freshman grades. Apparently, the UC GPA only factors in grades from the end of frosh year. Yay, more 4s to say good-bye to! The final GPAs are below:
AP GPA: 20+32 + 50+16 + 50+16 = 4.60 GPA
IB (weighted) GPA: 20+32 + 50+20+8 + 50+20+8 = 4.73
IB (UC) GPA: 20+32 + 48+20 + 70+8 = 4.50 GPA
IB (UC capped) GPA: 4.14 (credit to RogerHub)
Unweighted: 3.95
Sorry if this GPA stuff is annoying/not helpful… I know it’s only part of a college application (and that ECs and awards are also important), but it’s just so fascinating to see how these numbers add up.
Thank you everyone for your help! I’m very very grateful for it. 
Feedback is still very much appreciated (especially on the overall difficulty of AP vs IB), but I should be making my decision over the coming days.