Your IB Advantage Starts Here
At The Princeton Review Singapore, we combine expert instruction with proven strategies to help students thrive in every IBDP subject—online or in-person
What is the IBDP
The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) is a rigorous two-year pre-university program designed for students between 16 and 19 years of age. Recognized globally, the IBDP emphasizes intellectual challenge and personal development. Students pursue a broad curriculum across six subject areas: languages, sciences, mathematics, and the arts. In addition to academics, the program fosters critical thinking through components like the Extended Essay (EE), Theory of Knowledge (TOK), and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)
Graduating with an IB Diploma is a prestigious achievement that opens opportunities for higher education at top universities worldwide and prepares students with essential life skills beyond academics.
How to Choose Your IBDP Subjects
When it comes to the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), selecting your subjects is an essential step in shaping your academic future. Most students choose a combination of three Higher Level (HL) and three Standard Level (SL) subjects, balancing deeper study in their stronger areas with a broad foundation across all disciplines. The IBDP allows you to tailor your education by choosing subjects from six distinct categories, ensuring a well-rounded curriculum. Here’s how the selection works:
Group 1: Language and Literature
In this group, you will study your first language. It involves analyzing literature, improving communication skills, and deepening your understanding of various forms of written expression.
Group 2: Language Acquisition
This group focuses on learning a second language. Whether you’re beginning a new language or building on existing knowledge, this subject enhances global communication and cultural understanding.
Group 3: Individuals and Societies
The social sciences come under this group. You can study subjects like History, Geography, and Economics, where you’ll examine the development of human societies, their structures, and relationships.
Group 4: Sciences
Here, you will choose from subjects like Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or Environmental Systems. These courses emphasize inquiry-based learning and scientific experimentation to understand the natural world.
Group 5: Mathematics
The IBDP offers different levels of mathematics, from Higher Level (HL) to Standard Level (SL), depending on your strengths and career interests. Higher Level is more in-depth, while Standard Level provides a solid foundation in mathematical principles.
Group 6: The Arts
If you’re inclined towards creativity, this group offers courses in Visual Arts, Theatre, and Music. Alternatively, you can choose a subject from another group if you wish to focus more on subjects in the sciences or social sciences.
Group | Subject Area | Examples |
Group 1 | Studies in Language and Literature | Language A: Literature, Language A: Language and Literature |
Group 2 | Language Acquisition | French B, Spanish Ab initio |
Group 3 | Individuals and Societies | Economics, History, Psychology |
Group 4 | Sciences | Physics, Chemistry, Biology |
Group 5 | Mathematics | Math: Analysis and Approaches, Math: Application and Interpretation |
Group 6 | The Arts (or 2nd from Groups 1-5) | Visual Arts, Music, Theatre |
Higher Level (HL) vs. Standard Level (SL):
The choice between Higher Level and Standard Level affects the depth and intensity of the subject. HL subjects involve more extensive content and require greater time commitment, making them ideal for students with a strong passion or intention to pursue those subjects further. On the other hand, SL subjects offer a broader overview and are often chosen by students with a diverse range of academic interests.
Feature | Higher Level ( HL) | Standard Level ( SL) |
Duration | Minimum 240 teaching hours | Minimum 150 teaching hours |
Ideal For | Students planning to pursue the subject in university | Students seeking a broader academic balance |
University Recognition | Preferred for subject specific applications | Accepted, but with less emphasis on specialized fields. |
Our IBDP Courses: Unlock Your Full Potential with Expert Guidance
At The Princeton Review Singapore, we don’t just teach – we empower you to thrive in the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP). Whether you’re looking for the dynamic interaction of in-person lessons or the convenience of online learning, we’ve got you covered. Our dedicated tutors will guide you every step of the way to ensure you succeed
Why Choose In-Person Tuition?
- Interactive and Engaging: Immerse yourself in lively discussions, group activities, and personalized one-on-one support.
- Direct Access to Experts: Get instant clarification and feedback on difficult concepts.
- Focused, Distraction-Free Environment: Learn in a dedicated, quiet space designed to help you stay focused and productive.
Ready for a truly hands-on learning experience? In-person tuition gives you the opportunity to actively participate, interact, and grow, all while receiving the guidance you need to reach your goals. Let’s make success happen, together.
Why Choose Online Tuition?
- Learn from Anywhere: Access your lessons from the comfort of your home, or wherever you are — no boundaries.
- Cutting-Edge Technology: Enjoy interactive learning tools, digital resources, and seamless communication with your tutor.
- Personalized Attention: Get the support you need, whenever you need it, with real-time feedback in an engaging virtual environment.
Why settle for less when you can have the best of both worlds? Our online tuition offers you the flexibility to learn at your own pace, with the full support of expert tutors. Start learning smarter, not harder.
The Princeton Review IBDP Success Plan – 8 Steps to Excellence
Why Choose Us?
- Tailored Learning: Each lesson is designed with you in mind, ensuring that we cater to your individual learning style and academic goals.
- Expert Tutors: Our tutors are passionate about helping students succeed and have the knowledge to guide you through every step of the IBDP curriculum.
- Engaging Lessons: We create an environment that keeps you motivated and excited to learn, whether in-person or online.
- Exam-Focused Strategy: Regular practice tests, targeted revisions, and feedback ensure you’re exam-ready, helping you perform your best when it counts.
Take the Leap Towards Success!Whether you choose in-person or online tuition, we’re here to guide you through every step of your IBDP journey. Contact us today to kickstart your path to excellence with the best tutors by your side.
Frequently Asked Questions
You’ll select six subjects, each from a different group. Typically, students take three subjects at Higher Level (HL) and three at Standard Level (SL).
HL subjects go deeper into content and require more time, while SL subjects cover the fundamentals. HL is ideal if you're particularly strong or interested in that subject
Yes, Group 6 (The Arts) is optional. You can replace it with another subject from Groups 1 to 4 to align with your goals.
Absolutely. We offer the flexibility to switch formats based on your needs, so you’re never limited by your location or schedule.
Of course. Reach out for a personalized consultation—we’ll help you make informed choices based on your interests and future plans.
Our tutors are knowledgeable, approachable, and experienced with the IBDP curriculum. Whether online or in person, they focus on helping you understand, apply, and excel.