Students applying to LSE come from a range of educational backgrounds, whether it be A-Levels, IB, or AP, among others. Choosing the “right” curriculum can significantly alter your ability to meet the LSE entry requirements and here’s why.  

Depth vs. Breadth

A-levels are suitable for students who know their strengths and weaknesses well and have a definite interest in particular subjects, whether it be something they excel in or have an intellectual curiosity for. Thus, enabling them to show their strengths. In contrast, the IB is suitable for students who are knowledgeable in a range of subjects and prefer to have a balanced understanding of the general rather than the specific. Of course, this also means that they may have to work in areas they are less confident. For example, A-levels can allow you to completely avoid studying Maths or English whereas this is compulsory for IB.

Focus vs. Variety

The minimum number of subjects for A-level students to take is three subjects in comparison to IB’s six subjects, not to mention, the three core components: CAS, EE, and TOK. Taking A-levels enables students to develop an extensive understanding of specific subjects and therefore, become extremely skilled in these subjects. However, if you prefer to spend your time learning about a range of different things and participating in different activities (CAS), IB is made for you!

Independent vs. Group work

Although both curriculums involve plenty of exams, the extent to which your grades are determined through exams may differ. For instance, the final exam for most “traditional” subjects makes up 100% of your grade in A-levels whereas the final IB score is a combination of exams AND internal assessments (research-based assignments for each subject). In general, IB often involves a lot more group work over the course of two years because students are constantly assessed in the form of presentations, debates, and so on. As for A-levels, group work rarely happens as students are taught to work independently and thus, requires lots of self-discipline. 

Which one is easier?

Perhaps this is the most frequently asked question by students but unfortunately, there is no “correct” answer to this question. However, you will certainly find one easier than the other. Like the saying “study smarter, not harder”, the most important piece of advice I could give you is to know your strengths. Everyone has their own individual study style and topics they enjoy. If you prefer to spend time on subjects that you enjoy, then A-levels are more suited to you. In contrast, if you like learning a little bit about everything or do not know what your strengths are yet (which is completely fine), then maybe IB is more suitable. 

By choosing the “right” curriculum, you may be one step closer to meeting your LSE entry requirement!