Is IB Physics Hard?

You've heard the rumours. IB Physics has a reputation. Maybe your older friends warned you about it, or you've seen people stress about it online. Now you're wondering: Is IB Physics actually as hard as everyone says?

Here's the truth: IB Physics can be challenging. It demands strong mathematical skills, abstract thinking, and the ability to apply concepts to real-world problems. But don’t let that put you off – with the right approach, it's completely manageable. Thousands of students succeed in IB Physics every year, and you can too.

Let's break down exactly what makes the subject demanding, how HL and SL compare, and most importantly, how you can tackle it with confidence.

What Makes IB Physics Challenging?

It's Maths-Heavy

Physics and maths are best friends. You'll need to rearrange equations, work with graphs, and handle calculations involving everything from vectors to logarithms. If algebra isn't your strong suit yet, you'll need to build those skills quickly.

The good news? The Physics data booklet (opens in a new tab) gives you all the formulas during exams. Your job is to understand when and how to use them.

Abstract Concepts Rule

Unlike other subjects, where you can often visualise what's happening, Physics deals with invisible forces, fields, and particles. Concepts like electromagnetic induction, quantum behaviour, and special relativity require you to think beyond what you can see or touch.

This abstract thinking takes practice. You're not just memorising facts – you're building mental models of how the universe works.

Problem-Solving is Key

IB Physics isn't about learning information and repeating it back. Most exam questions test whether you can apply your understanding to new situations. You might need to analyse an unfamiliar experiment, predict outcomes, or explain why a particular approach would or wouldn't work.

This application-based assessment means you need a deep understanding, not surface-level knowledge.

The Jump from GCSE is Real

If you're coming from GCSE or MYP, (opens in a new tab) expect a significant step-up. The syllabus states that "for most students considering the study of physics at HL, while there is no intention to restrict access, some previous exposure to formal science education would be necessary." The pace is faster, the content is denser, and the level of mathematical rigour increases dramatically.

HL vs SL: Which Is Harder and Why?

Both Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL) cover the same core topics, but HL goes significantly deeper and broader.

Content Differences

SL requires 150 teaching hours, whilst HL demands 240 hours. That extra time isn't just revision – it's packed with additional content.

HL-only topics include:

• Rigid body mechanics — rotational motion, torque, moment of inertia, and angular momentum

• Galilean and special relativity — time dilation, length contraction, and space-time diagrams

• Thermodynamics — entropy, the laws of thermodynamics, and heat engines

• Induction — electromagnetic induction, Faraday's law, and Lenz's law

• Quantum physics — photoelectric effect, de Broglie wavelength, and wave-particle duality

Plus, several topics covered at SL have additional HL content that explores concepts in greater mathematical and conceptual depth.

Choosing the Right Level

Pick HL if you're planning to study physics, engineering, or related fields at university. Many top courses require or strongly prefer HL Physics.

Choose SL if you want a solid physics education but don't need the subject for your future studies. The guide explicitly states that "students will be able to study physics at SL successfully with no background in, or previous knowledge of, science."

How IB Physics Compares to Other IB Sciences

Students often debate which IB science is hardest. The answer depends on your strengths.

Physics demands the strongest mathematical skills. If you struggle with maths, you'll find Physics tougher than the other sciences.

Chemistry sits in the middle, requiring both maths and memorisation. It's often seen as a good balance.

Biology is the most content-heavy, with extensive memorisation required. If you prefer understanding concepts over learning facts, Biology might feel harder than Physics, despite Physics's reputation.

Subject Combinations: Physics pairs brilliantly with Maths Analysis and Approaches HL. Many students take Chemistry alongside Physics, especially for engineering pathways.

What the Results Say: Grade Boundaries and Averages

Let's look at the data from recent exam sessions to put the difficulty in perspective.

May 2024 Results

For Physics HL, the mean grade was 4.9, with 19.6% of students achieving a grade 7 and 16.7% achieving a grade 6.

For Physics SL, the mean grade was 4.2, with 10.5% achieving a grade 7 and 13.0% achieving a grade 6.

May 2025 Provisional Results

For Physics HL, the mean grade was 4.9, with 18.9% of students achieving a grade 7 and 17.9% achieving a grade 6.

For Physics SL, the mean grade was 4.2, with 10.2% achieving a grade 7 and 11.7% achieving a grade 6.

What This Means for You

These statistics show that achieving top grades is competitive but definitely achievable. Around one in five HL students gets a 7, and about one in ten SL students does. With focused effort and smart study strategies, you can absolutely be in that top group.

The consistent mean grades also show that IB standards remain stable year-on-year, so you can trust that your preparation will pay off.

How to Manage the Workload

Success in IB Physics isn't about working harder – it's about working smarter.

Weekly Time Commitment

Plan for 4-5 hours of Physics study per week outside class for SL, and 6-8 hours for HL. This includes homework, revision, and IA work.

Balancing Your IA

The Internal Assessment (IA) is worth 20% of your final grade and requires approximately 10 hours of work. Start early, choose a manageable research question, and book regular check-ins with your teacher.

Don't leave it until the last minute when you're also juggling Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge, and other subject IAs.

Fitting Physics into Your Full IB Schedule

Use a weekly planner. Block out time for each subject, including TOK (Theory of Knowledge), CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service), and EE (Extended Essay). Treat these blocks like unmissable appointments.

Physics benefits from spaced repetition. Learning a little often is better than cramming for long sessions.

Tips to Make IB Physics More Manageable

IB Physics can be demanding. But there are proven strategies to lighten the workload and make exams feel easier. During my time as a Physics teacher, I’ve seen students transform their results by changing how they revise.

Use Quality Resources

Save My Exams offers comprehensive IB Physics revision notes, topic questions, and practice papers specifically designed to match the syllabus. Our materials break down complex concepts into digestible explanations with worked examples and examiner tips and tricks.

Master Your Revision Techniques

Active recall beats passive reading. Test yourself regularly rather than just re-reading notes.

Concept maps help you visualise connections between topics. Physics is highly networked. Understanding how ideas link together is crucial.

Past papers are gold. The IB offers specimen and past papers. Use these to get used to the question styles and manage your time better.

Develop Smart Study Habits

Group study can be powerful for Physics. Explaining concepts to others reinforces your own understanding, and you'll benefit from different perspectives on tricky topics.

Spaced repetition means reviewing material at increasing intervals. This fights the forgetting curve and builds long-term retention.

Regular IA feedback from your teacher is essential. Don't wait until you've finished to ask for input – get guidance at each stage.

Is IB Physics Worth It?

Absolutely. Here's why.

University Preparation

Physics HL is excellent preparation for STEM degrees. You'll arrive at university with strong mathematical skills, problem-solving abilities, and experience conducting independent research through your IA.

Career Opportunities

Physics opens doors to engineering, medicine, technology, finance, data science, and research. The analytical thinking you develop is valuable across countless careers.

Transferable Skills

Even if you don't pursue physics at university, the subject teaches you to think critically, solve complex problems, and approach challenges systematically. These skills are valuable for life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is IB Physics HL Harder Than A Level Physics?

They're difficult in different ways. IB Physics HL covers more breadth – you study everything from special relativity to quantum mechanics. A Level Physics goes deeper into fewer topics. IB also includes the IA, Extended Essay, and TOK, adding to the overall workload.

Can I Take IB Physics Without Taking Maths HL?

Yes. You can take Physics HL with Maths Analysis SL or Maths Applications SL. However, Maths Analysis HL complements Physics HL beautifully – the calculus and advanced algebra are directly useful.

What Is the Hardest Topic in IB Physics?

This varies by student, but commonly cited challenges include:

• Mechanics, particularly circular motion and rotational dynamics

• Quantum physics (HL)

• Electromagnetic induction (HL)

• Special relativity and space-time diagrams (HL)

How Much Time Should I Spend Revising IB Physics Each Week?

During term time, aim for 4-5 hours per week for SL and 6-8 hours for HL. In the months before exams, increase this to 8-10 hours per week for SL and 12-15 hours for HL.

How Hard Is the IB Physics IA Compared to the Exam?

The IA tests different skills from the exams. You're designing your own investigation, collecting data, and analysing results. It requires creativity, planning, and scientific writing skills. Many students find it challenging but rewarding – it's your chance to explore something you're genuinely curious about.

Final Thoughts

Is IB Physics hard? Yes. But "hard" doesn't mean impossible.

The subject demands mathematical confidence, abstract thinking, and consistent effort. You'll need to develop problem-solving skills and apply your knowledge in new contexts. The jump from GCSE or MYP is significant, and the workload – especially at HL – is substantial.

But here's what matters: with the right resources, smart study habits, and determination, you can absolutely succeed in IB Physics. The key is being strategic about your learning, staying on top of the material, and not being afraid to ask for help when concepts don't click immediately.

Make your decision based on your interests, strengths, and future goals. If you’re eager to learn how the universe works and ready to put in the effort, IB Physics will give you valuable skills, knowledge, and chances that go beyond just exam results.

Ready to start your physics journey? Check out our IB Physics revision resources to give yourself the best chance of success.

References

• IB Diploma Programme Physics guide (first assessment 2025) (opens in a new tab)

• IB Diploma Programme Final Statistical Bulletin - May 2024 (opens in a new tab)

• IB Diploma Programme Provisional Statistical Bulletin - May 2025 (opens in a new tab)

• Middle Years Programme (MYP) (opens in a new tab)