Comparison of IB and AP Programs

Similarities of AP and IB

Both are rigorous programs devoted to educational experience with high performance expectations for students and faculty
Both attract highly motivated students who wish to excel academically
Both receive additional weight in calculating GPA
Both involve highly dedicated and creative teachers committed to their students, disciplines, and profession
Both use external assessments and evaluators to score assessments
Both offer extensive professional development opportunities for teachers and administrators
Both are recognized by most US universities for consideration for college credit or advanced standing
Both rely on objectivity and fairness in scoring assessments, removing personality and personal influence from the assessment system. Scores are based on the quality of wok evaluated against a set criteria or standard.

Advanced Placement Program

International Baccalaureate Program

National standard of excellence
AP consists of independent courses for students who may excel in only one or two academic disciplines
College level courses
AP scores are based solely on the AP exam
AP exams are multiple choice and short-answer or essay exams
Exams are based on in-depth mastery of specific concepts within a given subject
Any student may take AP exams; IB students may take AP exams
AP teachers work within their discipline; independent of other academic areas
AP students form peer groups within individual classes
AP recognizes high achievement on AP exams through the AP scholars program
Policies are determined by national educators

International standard of excellence
IB is a 2 yr well-rounded education program with 6 areas of study, an extended essay, TOK and CAS
Comprehensive curriculum of college level work
IB scores are based on classroom work and on IB exams
IB exams are all short answer or essay exams
Exams are based on broad general understanding of concepts and fundamental themes
Only IB students enrolled in IB courses may take IB exams and receive IB credit
IB teachers work as a team to connect curriculum across the disciplines
IB seeks to create a cohort or peer group around all academics
Successful IB candidates receive an IB diploma for the full program or IB certificate for individual courses taken
Opportunities exist for the participation of the teacher and local school in shaping curriculum and international policies