If you’re choosing between the International Baccalaureate (IB) and A-levels, one of the most common questions is: “Is the IB harder than A-levels?” It’s an important decision for both students and parents, as it shapes not only how you’ll study but also how universities will view your qualifications.
In this blog, we’ll focus primarily on the sciences, and explore the differences between IB Science and A-level Science, what makes each pathway unique, and which option might be best for you.
1. The Key Difference Between IB and A-levels
The A-level pathway allows students to specialise early, usually choosing three or four subjects in which they go into considerable depth. Many science students take Biology, Chemistry, Physics and/or Maths as part of their combination.
By contrast, the IB Diploma Programme is designed to keep studies broad. Students must choose six subjects across different areas, including:
- One science (sometimes two, depending on your school’s timetable)
- Mathematics
- A language
- Humanities
- Plus additional core components like Theory of Knowledge (TOK), the Extended Essay, andCAS (Creativity, Activity, Service).
In short: A-levels = depth and focus, IB = breadth and balance.
2. How IB Science Works
IB students choose a science subject at either:
- Standard Level (SL) – roughly equivalent to half an A-level in terms of content load
- Higher Level (HL) – more in-depth, with content and challenge often at an even greater breadth than a full A-level
IB Science is assessed through:
- Written exams (covering core topics and option material)
- Internal assessment (a practical investigation, worth 20% of the final grade)
- Emphasis on scientific skills, data analysis, and application of knowledge
This structure makes IB science less about memorisation and more about understanding how to apply concepts in unfamiliar contexts.
3. How A-level Science Works
A-level sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics) go deep into subject content. Generally, assessment is entirely exam-based, with no coursework, though practical skills are tested through experimental questions and the practical endorsement. The exception is the Cambridge (CAIE) science courses, which contain a practical-based paper that must be sat in a laboratory setting.
A-level science students typically have more time to focus on their chosen subjects, which allows for greater specialisation. This is especially useful if you know you want to pursue medicine, engineering, or another science-heavy degree.
4. Which Is Harder: IB or A-levels?
This is the big question, and the answer depends on your learning style and goals.
- IB Science can feel harder because you are juggling six subjects at once alongside the Extended Essay and TOK. Higher Level sciences often contain more content than A-levels, and so the workload is demanding.
- A-levels can feel harder if you struggle with depth and detail. You’re expected to master large amounts of subject-specific content and recall it under exam pressure.
Universities recognise both qualifications as rigorous. In fact, IB students are often praised for their well-rounded skillset, while A-level students are admired for subject depth.
5. Which Pathway Should You Choose?
Choose the IB if you:
- Enjoy a broad range of subjects and don’t want to specialise yet
- Are good at balancing multiple deadlines and commitments
- Want a qualification valued internationally
Choose A-levels if you:
- Already know which subjects (especially sciences) you want to pursue at university
- Prefer to focus deeply on fewer subjects
- Would rather avoid extra requirements like TOK or CAS
6. How SwH Learning Can Help
Whichever route you take, SwH Learning is here to support your science journey.
- Our revision guides and workbooks for GCSE, IGCSE, and A-level science are available at www.swhlearning.co.uk.
- Our YouTube channel, Science with Hazel, has clear, all-in-one topic videos that explain tricky concepts in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- We also run revision courses to help students prepare with confidence.
Final Thoughts
So, is IB Science harder than A-levels? The truth is: they are hard in different ways. IB challenges you with breadth, balance, and constant assessment, while A-levels demand subject mastery and exam performance.
What matters most is choosing the pathway that fits your learning style, career goals, and academic strengths.
👉 Explore our resources at SwH Learning
👉 Watch free science videos on Science with Hazel