HS vs. HL vs. SL

There can be substantial differences between courses taken at High School Level (HS), Standard Level (SL) and those taken at Higher Level (HL), though these difference vary from course to course. These general differences apply to all courses:

• SL courses have a minimum requirement of 150 teaching hours over the programme. HL courses have a minimum requirement of 240 teaching hours. HS courses follow the SL allocation of 150 teaching hours.

• HS and SL courses demand less breadth and depth of content knowledge than HL courses.

• SL courses demand scores of 3 for passing the IB Diploma, while HL courses demand scores of 4. Hence, greater achievement is expected in HL courses. Passing grades for the VIS Diploma for HL, SL and HS courses is 3.

For the Diploma Programme it is essential to consider HL courses in subjects that are most enjoyable and motivating for the student, and is is crucial that the student has seen past success in the HL subject area.

Furthermore, a number of universities will make requirements for specific HL courses to be taken in order to gain entry to certain programmes of study. Please see the University section for more information.