IB vs A-levels: What’s Really Different and Which One Fits Your Child?

When parents and students ask which path is better—IB, the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, a broad, holistic curriculum used in schools worldwide or A-levels, the UK’s subject-focused qualification where students typically study 3-4 subjects in depth before university—they’re not just comparing exams. They’re asking: Which one prepares my child better for real life? Which one actually fits how they learn? The IB vs A-levels debate isn’t about which is harder—it’s about which aligns with your child’s strengths, goals, and stress tolerance.

The IB curriculum asks students to juggle six subjects across languages, sciences, humanities, and math, plus a research project, community service, and a philosophy course called Theory of Knowledge. It’s designed for kids who thrive on variety and connecting ideas. A-levels, on the other hand, let students drop most subjects after GCSEs and go deep into just three or four—perfect for teens who already know they want to study engineering, medicine, or history at university. One isn’t smarter or better. One is a wide net; the other is a laser beam.

What most parents don’t realize is how these systems shape daily life. IB students often work 30-40 hours a week on assignments outside class. A-level students might have lighter weekly workloads but face intense pressure during final exams. And while UK education system schools treat A-levels as the standard route into British universities, top US and European schools now value IB just as much—if not more—for its emphasis on critical thinking and global awareness. Neither is a guarantee for admission, but IB gives you more tools to stand out if you’re applying abroad.

If your child hates writing essays but loves math, A-levels might be the quiet win. If they’re curious about everything and burn out under pressure, IB’s structure might help them stay balanced. There’s no perfect choice—only the right one for the person sitting in front of you. Below, you’ll find real comparisons from students who’ve been through both, breakdowns of workload, and advice from parents who’ve walked this road before. No fluff. Just what actually matters when you’re deciding your child’s next step.