What it the difference between IB and AP in american education?

Question

Is there any difference? Why would one choose the one and not the other? Which one is more popular?

Answer 1

There's a big difference.

AP courses are designed to allow students to earn university-level credits while still in high school.  IB programs are designed to provide students with (what at least in theory is) an internationally transferable secondary-school diploma.  So you choose based on which is more attractive to you, bearing in mind what you want to do after high school.

For the vast majority of students, AP is the way to go, because these courses can ultimately save you an enormous amount of money and time.  I know a guy who was able to exempt an entire year of university classes, thus saving about $15,000, just because he had taken a bunch of AP classes (and made 5's on the exams).

AP is also WAY more popular, by leaps and bounds.  IB programs are only now becoming available in many areas.  AP has been widespread for decades.

Answer 2

IB requires alot more work. You have to take 6 classes, plus write an extended essay, a t.o.k essay and complete 150+ hours of C.A.S.

Most A.P kids only take three classes.

In other words, the I.B requires you to do alot more for no reason, so do the A.P!