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Hardest IB Subjects

Wojtek

By Wojtek

•

16 Jul 2024

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Choosing IB subjects can be a daunting task, especially when considering the level od difficulty. Some subjects are notoriously challenging and require significant dedication, effort and resilience. In this post, we will explore the hardest IB subjects, shedding light on what makes them so demanding. Whether you're looking to challenge yourself or seeking advice on course selection, understanding the rigor of these subjects is crucial for your IB journey. 

 

 

Hardest IB Subjects

 

To ensure the most accurate list, subjects were included based on the most recent official IB statistics (May 2024 session) and the opinions of IB alumni.

 

English A: Literature

 

  • Average grade - 4.6 for HL and 5.0 for SL
  • Only 0.9% of HL and 4.4% of SL students receive grade 7
  • Requires an ability to analyse and interpret texts in depth
  • Students often need to compare and contrast texts, highlighting connections and differences, which requires a nuanced understanding of multiple works simultaneously

 

 

History 

 

  • Average grade - 4.4 for HL SL 4.7 for SL
  • Only 2.7% of HL and 3.4% of SL students receive grade 7
  • Requires remarkable essay writing skills. Students must produce multi-perspective, analytical essays, within tight time constraints
  • Apart from that, History is also a content heavy subject

 

 

Physics

 

  • Average grade - 4.9 for HL and 4.2 for SL
  • 19.4% of HL and 10.4% of SL students receive grade 7
  • While the percentage of students receiving grade 7 is significantly higher than the percentage in other subjects on this list, IB Physics is considered to be one of the most challenging subjects in the entire IB curriculum
  • Students often find it challenging to thoroughly understand the concepts and apply them effectively, especially since many questions require the simultaneous application of multiple concepts
  • The course also requires proficient mathematical skills

 

 

Computer Science 

 

  • Average grade - 4.5 for HL and 4.1 for SL
  • Only 7.8% of HL and 5.9% of SL students receive grade 7
  • The course can be especially challenging for those with little to no prior programming experience
  • The algorithm component of the course can be especially challenging as it requires strong analytical skills
  • The Computer Science IA is particularly daunting. One might even say it is the hardest IA in the IB. Students are expected to come up with a solution to a problem faced by a client by creating a new system or improving an existing one. The Computer Science IA requires a lot of planning, resilience and is very time consuming. 

 

 

 

 

Mathematics AA HL

 

  • Average grade - 4.4
  • Only 7.7% of HL students receive grade 7
  • With the strong emphasis on proofs and the theoretical aspect, students are required to have a deep understanding of the mathematical concepts, which many find very challenging
  • Students have also noted that the course requires a substantial time commitment, limiting their study time for other subjects

 

 

We hope you found this post helpful in learning about the hardest IB subjects and the challenges they pose. Remember, Clastify is here to support you! Explore our collection of IA, EE and TOK exemplars, along with our blog, to make your IB journey as smooth and rewarding as possible!