As the new academic year begins, thousands of students are stepping into classrooms, some ready to specialise, others juggling six subjects plus essays, service projects, and critical thinking challenges.
But one quiet question is sitting in many students’ minds: Did I choose the right path?
At Bonas MacFarlane, we’re often asked to weigh in on the A-Level vs IB debate. The truth? One isn’t better than the other – they’re just different. And understanding those differences is key to making a confident, informed choice.
Two Siblings, Two Styles
Think of A-Level and IB as two very different students in the same family.
A-Level is the subject specialist. They know what they like and want to dig deep. They’re focused, exam-ready, and thrive when they can give their all to three or four subjects. Their strength lies in precision and depth.
IB, on the other hand, is the all-rounder. They enjoy variety, balance, and big-picture thinking. They take six subjects (including maths, science, a language and a humanities), write a 4,000-word research essay, explore philosophy in Theory of Knowledge, and give back through community service. Their strength is in breadth, resilience and global perspective.
Choosing the Right Fit
There’s no “best” curriculum – only the one that fits the student. Here’s a quick guide to help:
| Student Strength | Best Fit |
|---|---|
| Clear academic focus | A-Level |
| Loves variety and balance | IB |
| Strong exam performance | A-Level |
| Independent, self-motivated | IB |
| Wants to keep university options open | IB |
| Prefers coursework and reflection | IB |
| Enjoys going deep into subjects | A-Level |
What Do Universities Think?
Both A-Level and IB students are highly valued by UK and global universities. Admissions officers recognise the rigour of both systems and often make offers tailored to each.
- A-Level students are admired for their mastery of subject content and their ability to argue and analyse in depth.
- IB students stand out for their academic versatility, research skills, and global outlook.
Ultimately, top universities want curious, committed students – not just the right curriculum, but the right student in the right curriculum.
What If It Doesn’t Feel Right?
Here’s the secret: starting perfectly is overrated. Many students experience early doubts. Some feel overwhelmed by the IB’s workload. Others worry they’ve narrowed down too soon with A-Levels. That’s normal.
What matters is how students adapt, reflect and grow and that’s where strong academic mentorship makes all the difference.
How We Help
At Bonas MacFarlane, we work closely with families to:
- Understand a student’s individual strengths, ambitions and learning style
- Provide guidance on curriculum choice and subject selection
- Support students throughout their academic journey – whether through tutoring, mentoring, or preparation for university entrance
Whether you’re navigating Year 10 or just weeks into Sixth Form, we’re here to help students feel supported, seen and confident in their path forward.
Final Thought
Choosing between A-Level and IB isn’t about picking the “top” option – it’s about finding the best match for your mind, your motivation, and your future goals. With the right support, any path can lead to success.
Need guidance on choosing or thriving within a curriculum?
Bonas MacFarlane’s expert academic mentors and consultants are here to help, get in touch on +44 (0) 207 223 2794.