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Comparisons
IB vs A-Levels: Which Is Right for Your Child?
By Constantin Mardoukhaev · Reviewed by Axiom Academic's academic team
The IB Diploma and A-Levels are both two-year, pre-university qualifications, but they differ in breadth. The IB requires six subjects plus a core (Theory of Knowledge, the Extended Essay and CAS) and is scored out of 45; A-Levels typically focus on three subjects in depth, graded A*–E. The IB suits well-rounded, internationally mobile students, while A-Levels suit early specialists.
Breadth versus depth
The biggest difference is how many subjects you study. The IB Diploma keeps six subjects across languages, sciences, humanities and maths, plus three core elements: Theory of Knowledge (TOK), the Extended Essay and CAS. A-Levels usually narrow to three subjects (sometimes four), studied in greater depth.
Structure and scoring
The IB is scored out of 45: each of six subjects out of 7, plus up to 3 bonus points from TOK and the Extended Essay. A-Levels are graded A*–E per subject. The IB therefore rewards consistent all-round performance, while A-Levels reward depth in a chosen field.
| Aspect | IB Diploma | A-Levels |
|---|---|---|
| Subjects | 6 + core | 3–4 |
| Scoring | Out of 45 | A*–E per subject |
| Focus | Breadth | Depth |
| Built-in skills | Research (EE), critical thinking (TOK), CAS | None formalised |
| Best for | Well-rounded, internationally mobile | Early specialists |
University recognition
Both are accepted by leading universities worldwide. UK universities make offers in IB points (a competitive offer is typically around 36–40 points, broadly comparable to AAA–A*A*A at A-Level), and the IB is well recognised across Europe, North America and beyond, which is an advantage for internationally mobile families. Always check each university's published equivalences.
Which suits your child?
Choose the IB if your child enjoys a broad mix, including a language, and benefits from the research (Extended Essay) and critical-thinking (TOK) skills universities value. Choose A-Levels if they already know their direction and want to specialise early in three subjects.
Whichever path, our specialist IB tutors support every Diploma subject and the core components.
Frequently asked questions
Is the IB harder than A-Levels?
Neither is objectively harder; they are demanding in different ways. The IB spreads effort across six subjects plus the core, rewarding time management and breadth, while A-Levels demand depth in fewer subjects.
Do UK universities accept the IB?
Yes. All UK universities, including the most selective, accept the IB Diploma and publish point-based offers alongside their A-Level requirements.
How do IB points convert to A-Level grades?
There is no exact formula, but universities publish equivalences: a competitive offer is often around 36–40 IB points, broadly in line with AAA to A*A*A at A-Level.
Need help from an IB specialist?
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