SL vs. HL: Making Smart Choices for Your IB & University Goals
Choosing Higher Level (HL) and Standard Level (SL) subjects is one of the most important strategic decisions you'll make as you approach the IB Diploma. It’s not just about what you enjoy; it’s about creating a profile that opens the right university doors for you. Get this right, and your pathways to further study and careers become a whole lot clearer.
Let's break down how to make smart choices, thinking like a university admissions officer.
Part 1: The Main Difference – It’s All About Depth & Time
The most obvious differences between SL and HL are the time commitment and the depth of study. The IB has very specific requirements for SL and HL teaching hours, which give you some big clues about the level of detail involved.
| Level | Required Hours | What This Actually Means |
|---|
| Standard Level (SL) | 150 Hours | Provides a broad overview of the subject. It ensures you have a well-rounded education, a key part of the IB philosophy. |
| Higher Level (HL) | 240 Hours | A significant (60%) amount of additional time to allow a deep dive into the subject. You'll cover more topics, explore complex themes, and face more rigorous assessments. This is your chance to specialise and get really in-depth with the subject. |
The Lanterna Tip: Think of it this way: HL subjects are where you prove your passion and readiness for a specific university course. SL subjects are where you prove you're a well-rounded, capable student. All the points count so both are crucial for your final 45 points. Don't gamble on a fourth HL for no reason: a 7 in an SL subject is far more valuable than a 4 in an HL you didn't need.
Part 2: The Golden Rule – Work Backwards From Your University Goal
Don't guess. Plan!
All IB Diploma schools should have an identified University and Careers Counsellor. Find this person and make use of them.
The single most effective way to choose your HL subjects is to look at what your ideal universities and courses require. Taking HL Physics as your science options "because it looks good" is a poor strategy if you want to study Law.
Your Action Plan:
- List Your Targets: Do some research and writedown 5-10 university courses you are seriously considering (e.g., "Computer Science at Bristol," "Economics at Toronto," "History at Oxford").
- Become an Admissions Detective: Go to the official admissions page for each course. Search for "Entry Requirements," "International Baccalaureate," or "Course Prerequisites."
- Identify the Non-Negotiables: Look for phrases like "required subjects" or "essential subjects." They will almost always specify which subjects must be taken at HL and the minimum grade required (e.g., "7,6,6 at Higher Level including Mathematics and Physics").
- Build Your HL Trio: The subjects that appear most frequently as requirements on your list are your HL candidates. These are almost never optional.
Your SL subjects can then be chosen based on your interests, strengths, and what will help you secure the highest possible total IB score.
Part 3: A Deep Dive into one that really counts – IB Mathematics
Maths is often a critical HL choice, and with two different pathways, it's easy to get confused. Here’s the breakdown to help you decide.
Mathematics: Analysis & Approaches (AA)
This is the more traditional, theory-heavy course, focusing on calculus and algebraic manipulation. It's for students who appreciate the elegance of pure mathematics.
- AA HL: This is the gold standard for highly mathematical degrees. If you are considering Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, or theoretical Economics at a top university, this is likely to be a must-have course. Be aware: it is considered the most rigorous IB Maths course, and seen by many as one of the hardest.
- AA SL: A great option for courses that need a solid mathematical foundation but aren't purely theoretical. Think Life Sciences (Biology, Chemistry), Medicine, some Business degrees, and Social Sciences. It often satisfies calculus prerequisites where AI SL might not.
Mathematics: Applications & Interpretation (AI)
This course focuses on using mathematics as a tool to solve real-world problems, with a heavy emphasis on statistics, modelling, and the use of technology.
- AI HL: Perfect for students who excel at applying mathematical concepts. It's well-regarded for courses in Finance, Data Science, some Business fields, Social Sciences, and Psychology. While many universities accept it for STEM, it is vital that you check, as some engineering/physics programs will only accept AA HL.
- AI SL: Best suited for Humanities, Arts, and degree programs where maths is not a central component. Be careful: many universities will not accept AI SL for science or business programs that have a calculus prerequisite.
The Maths Rule of Thumb: If you have even the slightest doubt, check the university website. If you're aiming for a top-tier STEM or Economics course, AA HL is the most universally accepted prerequisite. Choosing the wrong Maths course is one of the easiest ways to be automatically disqualified from a program.
Part 4: Quick Guide for Other Popular Pathways
Beyond Maths, other degree paths have clear HL expectations.
Medicine & Life Sciences
Must-Have HLs: Chemistry is almost always required at HL. Biology at HL is also essential for most medicine, dentistry, and veterinary programs.
Good to Have: A third science or Maths at HL may be required, and will strengthen your application.
Engineering
Must-Have HLs: Mathematics AA and Physics are non-negotiable at HL for almost every engineering discipline worldwide.
Good to Have: HL Chemistry can be essential for Chemical Engineering.
Humanities & Law
Must-Have HLs: You need to take the subject you want to study at HL. Applying for History? Take HL History. Applying for English? Take HL English. This proves your specific interest and capability and a combo of both is good for Law.
Good to Have: For Law, subjects that demonstrate analytical and essay-writing skills like History, Economics, or Philosophy at HL are highly valued.
Business & Economics
Must-Have HLs: Mathematics at HL (AA is often preferred for more competitive courses) is frequently required.
Good to Have: HL Economics or Business Management show direct interest and provides a strong foundation.
Your Final Check: Strategy Over Prestige
The goal is not to have the "hardest" looking set of HL subjects. The goal is to meet the requirements for your chosen course and achieve the highest possible total score. Universities make offers based on your overall points and specific HL prerequisites. A balanced workload that allows you to score 6s and 7s across the board is infinitely better than burning out with four HL subjects and scraping a pass.
Note that you will need at least 12 points in your HLs and 9 in your SLs to pass the Diploma. So, choose smart, work hard, and keep your eyes on your university prize.
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