Can You Take IB and AP at the Same Time?

You want to challenge yourself in school. You also want to look strong when you apply to college. That’s why you might be asking, “Can I take IB and AP classes at the same time?”

At first, it sounds impressive. IB and AP are both tough programs. But doing both can also be stressful. The work adds up fast, deadlines overlap, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

The good news is this: yes, it is possible to take IB and AP together in some cases. But it doesn’t work for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explain when it makes sense, when it doesn’t, and what colleges are really looking fort.

 Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can take IB and AP courses simultaneously, but it depends on your school's policies and course offerings.

• Students typically combine these programs by taking full IB alongside self-studying for AP exams, or by taking individual courses from each program.

• Both IB and AP are highly regarded by universities; but how well you do matters more than how many you take.

• The combined workload can be very difficult, it requires exceptional time management, self-discipline, and realistic goal-setting.

What's the Difference Between IB and AP?

Before diving into whether you can take both, let's look at what makes these programs different.

The International Baccalaureate (IB) is a comprehensive two-year diploma program for students aged 16-19. It's internationally recognized and emphasizes critical thinking, global awareness, and interdisciplinary learning.

The IB Diploma (opens in a new tab) requires you to take six subjects across different areas, plus three core components: Theory of Knowledge (TOK), the Extended Essay, and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS). You need at least 24 points out of a possible 45 to earn the diploma.

Advanced Placement (AP) courses are individual, college-level classes offered mainly in American high schools. There are 40 different AP courses available (opens in a new tab), covering subjects from sciences to languages to arts.

Unlike IB, AP courses stand alone. You can take as many or as few as you like, with no additional requirements beyond the end-of-course exam.  (opens in a new tab)

Structure: IB is a holistic program that must be completed as a whole.  AP is modular, you can pick and choose what interests you.

Assessment: IB combines internal assessments (projects, essays, presentations) with final exams taken at the end of Year 13. (opens in a new tab)Most AP courses use one final exam.

Teaching style: IB emphasizes inquiry-based learning, discussion, and making connections between subjects. AP focuses more on exam content.

Recognition: Both are internationally recognized. But AP is more common in the U.S.

Is It Possible to Take IB and AP Together?

Yes, it is possible. But that doesn’t mean everyone should do it. There are a few things to consider.

• School Policy. It depends entirely on your school's policies. Not all schools offer both programs. Even schools that do offer both may have restrictions on combining them. If your school only offers one program, you're limited to that option unless you self-study.

• Course availability. Some schools offer a hybrid curriculum with certain courses available only through IB or only through AP. In these cases, taking both becomes necessary if you want access to specific subjects.

The most common scenario: Students enrolled in the full IB Diploma Program also take one or two AP exams independently. Students don't have to take an AP course to sit the AP exam, which creates flexibility.

Another option: Taking individual IB certificates (not the full diploma) along with AP courses. This gives you the benefits of both without the overwhelming commitment of the complete IB Diploma.

Always check with your school counselor. They'll know what's allowed at your school and can help you come up with a realistic schedule.

Scenarios Where Students Take Both

So, when does it actually make sense to combine IB and AP? Students usually choose Advanced Placement courses because of its flexibility, specialized subjects, and stand-alone courses. Credits are easier to transfer in the US.

The International Baccalaureate program is a holistic, globally-focuses curriculum, especially the Diploma Program. Students pursue this route when they want structured, research-heavy programs that helps them build critical thinking and writing skills for international study. They also take the IB route if they want a solid, comprehensive preparation for college. 

Taking both is a popular choice, but it doesn’t work for everyone. When might you want to take both the IB and AP at the same time? Let’s look at some scenarios.

Scenario 1: Your IB School Doesn’t Offer a Subject You Want

Some IB schools don’t offer every subject. If you want to study something like economics or computer science, an AP exam might fill that gap.

Scenario 2: You’re Strong in a Subject Already

If you already speak another language or study music outside of school, self-studying for an AP exam can make sense.

Scenario 3: Your School Offers Both IB and AP Classes

Some schools let students mix classes. You might like IB history but prefer AP math.

Scenario 4: College Credit Planning

Different colleges give credit for different exams. Taking both IB and AP can sometimes help, but only if the colleges you’re applying to accept them.

Pros and Cons of Taking IB and AP at the Same Time

Let's be honest about what you're getting into.

Advantages of Taking IB and AP at the Same Time:

• Greater flexibility: You're not locked into one curriculum. You can explore subjects outside your IB options and tailor your education to your interests.

• Increased college credit opportunities: More exams mean more chances to earn university credits and potentially graduate early or skip introductory courses.

• Demonstrates exceptional academic rigor: Successfully managing both programs shows universities you can handle demanding workloads. It signals drive, commitment, and academic ambition.

• Develops diverse skills: IB's holistic approach, combined with AP's content mastery, gives you a well-rounded skill set. You'll develop both depth and breadth in your learning.

Disadvantages of Taking IB and AP at the Same Time:

• Overwhelming workload: Let's not sugarcoat it, both programs are individually demanding, and together they can be intense. You'll have multiple deadlines, different assessment styles, and mountains of revision.

• Conflicting deadlines and exam schedules: Both IB and AP exams typically happen in May. Preparing for both simultaneously is a recipe for stress.

• Mental and physical fatigue: The pressure of managing two rigorous programs can lead to burnout. Sleep deprivation, anxiety, and decreased performance in other activities become real risks.

• Potential for lower grades: Spreading yourself too thin might result in lower marks across the board, which could actually hurt your university applications more than help them.

• Less time for extracurriculars: Universities want well-rounded students. If taking both programs means sacrificing sports, clubs, volunteering, or hobbies, you might be doing yourself a disservice.

How Colleges View IB vs AP

Universities value both programs equally. They like to see students pursuing rigorous programs that challenge them. College officials see these types of programs as a way for students to show they are ready for university level work. Both programs can prepare you for that.

Most top schools accept both IB and AP programs. Ultimately, schools prioritize student’s willingness to challenge themselves by taking rigorous coursework. They respect both programs and look for quality work, not just taking a lot of classes because you can. In other words, getting high marks in a demanding curriculum is more impressive than simply taking lots of courses.

So What matters most to college admissions officers?

• Challenging Yourself. They like to see that you are willing to challenge yourself academically by taking the hardest classes available to you at your high school. This can be just AP, just IB, or a mix of the two.

• Performance. College officials like to see strong scores. High scores are needed for credit or advanced placement, and they show mastery of the subject.

• Individual Pursuits. A university values how well your chosen path fits your goals and learning style.

Should You Take Both?

You can take both IB and AP courses. In some instances, it can show extra initiative to top college officials. But it can be very demanding, and actually unnecessary. The best choice depends on what your school offers, your personal strengths, and your goals. Deciding whether to take both or not is a crucial question, and the answer depends entirely on you.

Take both if:

• Your school offers a hybrid curriculum, and it's the only way to access certain subjects you're passionate about

• You're genuinely interested in additional AP subjects that complement your IB studies

• You have excellent time management skills and a proven track record of handling heavy workloads

• You're applying to universities with generous credit policies for both programs

• Your mental health and well-being are strong, and you have good support systems in place

Don't take both if:

• You're only doing it because it “looks good,” universities care more about quality than quantity

• You're already struggling to manage your current workload

• It would mean sacrificing important extracurricular activities or personal interests

• You don't have strong organizational skills or tend to procrastinate

• The stress would negatively impact your mental health or family relationships

Ask yourself honest questions: Why do you want to take both? What are your actual goals? Will this genuinely benefit your future, or are you feeling pressure to do “everything”?

Talk to your school counselor, teachers, and family. Get their honest assessment of whether this is realistic for you.

Tips for Managing Both IB and AP Successfully

If you've decided to take both, here's how to survive (and thrive).

Make a revision calendar early. 

Don't wait until April to start planning. Create a comprehensive study schedule at the beginning of the academic year. Mark all IB Internal Assessment deadlines, AP exam dates, and school commitments.

Break down large tasks into smaller, manageable chunks. Schedule specific times for each subject rather than vague “study sessions.”

Use overlapping content to your advantage.

Look for subjects where IB and AP courses overlap. For example, if you're taking IB English and AP Literature, there will be significant overlap. Study smart, not twice.

Leverage those connections rather than treating them as completely separate workloads.

Prioritize! Prioritize! Prioritize!

Not every assignment deserves equal time. Learn to identify which assignments and  assessments carry the most weight and allocate your effort accordingly.

If you have an IB Internal Assessment due the same week as an AP practice test, the IA takes priority. It counts towards your final grade.

Communicate with teachers early.

Let your teachers know you're taking both programs. They might be willing to adjust deadlines, provide additional resources, or offer guidance on managing the workload.

Don't wait until you're drowning to ask for help. Proactive communication prevents last-minute crises.

Prioritize self-care and downtime.

This is non-negotiable. Sleep, exercise, socializing, and relaxation aren't luxuries. They are needful to ensure your peak academic performance.

Schedule breaks into your calendar with the same seriousness as study sessions. A burnt-out student performs worse than a well-rested one.

Build a support system.

Connect with other students taking both programs. Share resources, quiz each other, and provide emotional support during stressful periods.

Consider forming study groups for specific subjects, where you can divide and conquer material.

Use quality resources efficiently.

Don't just work harder; work smarter. Use targeted revision resources that focus on exam-specific content and practice questions.

Past papers are your best friend. They show you exactly what to expect and where you need more practice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take AP exams while doing the IB Diploma?

Yes, absolutely. The College Board allows students to take AP courses and exams even while they are enrolled in IB courses.

The IB Diploma doesn't prohibit students from taking AP exams. However, check with your school to make they allow it and to understand any scheduling or administrative requirements.

Do I have to take the AP class to take the AP exam?

No. One of the key advantages of AP is that you can take exams without enrolling in the corresponding course.

This means you can self-study using textbooks, online resources like Save My Exams, and practice exams, then register to sit the exam in May.

This is particularly useful if your school doesn't offer a specific AP course or if you already have knowledge in that subject area. Many students who are fluent in a language, for example, take the AP language exam without taking the course.

Is it too stressful to take IB and AP together?

It can be. Both programs are rigorous on their own, and combining them creates a substantial workload.

Stress levels depend on several factors: your time management skills, academic strengths, support system, and personal resilience. What feels manageable for one student might be overwhelming for another.

Be honest with yourself about your capacity. If you're already feeling stretched thin, adding more to your plate isn't the answer.

However, some students successfully manage both by being strategic about which courses they combine and by developing strong organizational habits.

Final Thoughts

Taking IB and AP together is absolutely possible, but that doesn't necessarily mean you should.

It's a significant commitment that requires exceptional time management, strong academic skills, and genuine motivation. Done right, it can demonstrate impressive academic capability and potentially earn you valuable university credits.

But remember that universities aren't looking for students who've done "everything." They want students who've challenged themselves thoughtfully, performed well in rigorous coursework, and maintained balance in their lives.

If combining IB and AP aligns with your genuine interests and goals, go for it with eyes wide open. But if you're only doing it because you think it's expected or because others are doing it, reconsider.

Quality beats quantity every time. Excelling in one of the two programs is more impressive than struggling through both programs and ending up with mediocre results.

Whatever you decide, make it your decision based on what's right for your circumstances, your wellbeing, and your actual goals. Not pressure, not competition, just what genuinely serves your future.

References

College Board AP Courses (opens in a new tab)

International Baccalaureate Program (opens in a new tab)