IB Curriculum Course Selection Strategy: How to Choose HL and SL Subjects
Plan a reasonable combination of HL and SL subjects in the IB curriculum based on university application goals.
The IB program requires students to select 3 Higher Level (HL) and 3 Standard Level (SL) subjects. Course selection directly impacts university applications.
STEM track: Recommended HL subjects are Math AA, Physics, and Chemistry.
Business track: Recommended HL subjects are Math AA, Economics, and Business Management.
Humanities track: Recommended HL subjects are English, History, and Psychology.
Key considerations:
- Understand the specific HL subject requirements of target universities
- Balance the difficulty and avoid taking the three most challenging subjects at HL
- Start planning your TOK and EE topics early