The IBDP (International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme) was developed in Switzerland with the aim of promoting critical thinking across a variety of subjects. A-Levels, invented in the UK in 1951, focus on rigorous specialisation prior to university. Which one is right for your teenager? JEROME BARTY from BartyED shares his thoughts.
How commonly are the two programmes offered in Hong Kong?
IBDP has become a popular choice for international schools over the past 20 years with many switching over from A-Levels. However, A-Levels remain a popular choice for private candidates – we support a number of students each year who register to sit the exams independently through the HKEAA.
Outline some similarities and differences in IBDP and A-Level subjects and grading
IBDP Students study six subjects – three at Higher level (HL) and three at Standard level (SL), alongside a compulsory philosophy course, Theory of Knowledge (TOK), and an independent research project, the Extended Essay (EE).
A-Level students take three to four subjects, each requiring at least as much depth as an IB HL subject. They may also complete an EPQ, a longer research project similar to the EE, in a subject of their choice.
IBDP mark schemes offer examiners (and students) a greater degree of precision (e.g., a 20-mark essay might have four criteria each marked out of 5). An equivalent A-Level essay may rely more on the examiner’s discretion. That said, in essay-heavy subjects like English and History, A-Level questions tend to be more straightforward.
For overall grades, IB students receive a mark out of 45, allowing for an easy numerical ranking of candidates, while A-Levels provide letter grades from A* to E.
Is one considered more rigorous?
On account of more subjects, parents often perceive the IBDP as more rigorous, but I’m not sure that’s true. The volume of content in an A-Level means students must work diligently and consistently over two years if they are to succeed.
For the aspiring medic, for example, A*s in A-Level Maths, Chemistry and Biology may provide them with a more manageable path than IBDP where they are also required to present in English Literature, a second language, and a humanities subject. We support IBDP students to perfect scores for HKU Medicine entry every year, but this places a considerable mental toll on the student (not to mention their tutors!)
Do different learners do well under a particular programme?
Students who might have struggled with managing 10 different subjects up to age 16 may find the focus of A-Levels to be quite relieving. A-Levels generally have less coursework, but the exams themselves are often longer.
For students who can effectively manage a high workload and enjoy a wide variety of academic disciplines, the IBDP may suit them better. But it requires lots of forward planning.
Do universities prefer one qualification over the other?
Both are widely accepted around the world. The right programme depends on the student, their work ethic, preparedness and commitment to their university goals.
Students with strong A-Level results can gain admission to top US universities, just as IBDP students can win places at Oxford or LSE. The decisive factor is how well they demonstrate genuine subject interest, academic excellence, meaningful extracurricular involvement, community engagement and a strong alignment with the institution’s values.
How does BartyED help learners in each programme?
We support students studying both IBDP and A-Levels. Rather than just drilling papers, we make sure students fully understand the content, exam technique and assessment instruments. We also provide tailored support for students completing their TOK, EE and EPQ projects, guiding them through these challenging research projects. And we also advise on university applications, with a particular focus on US schools.
What’s essential is that students emerge from their two-year programme feeling prepared, supported and ready for the next stage in their education.
Contact BartyED at enquiries@bartyed.com or 2882 1017.
bartyed.com
This article first appeared in the Winter 2025 issue of Expat Living magazine. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe so you never miss a copy!
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The IBDP (International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme) was developed in Switzerland with the aim of promoting critical thinking across a variety of subjects. A-Levels, invented in the UK in 1951, focus on rigorous specialisation prior to university.
