IB Subject Groups and Course Structure: Choosing Your Six Subjects
The six subject groups
IB Diploma students choose one subject from each of Groups 1–5, and either one from Group 6 (Arts) or a second from Groups 2–4.
Group 1: Studies in language and literature
- Language A: Literature
- Language A: Language and literature
- Literature and performance (interdisciplinary)
Usually the student’s best language.
Group 2: Language acquisition
- Language B (second language)
- Language ab initio (beginner)
- Classical languages (Latin, Classical Greek)
Group 3: Individuals and societies
- Business management, Economics, Geography, History
- Global politics, Philosophy, Psychology
- Social and cultural anthropology, World religions
- Digital society
Group 4: Sciences
- Biology, Chemistry, Physics
- Computer science, Design technology
- Environmental systems and societies (can count as Group 3 or 4)
- Sports, exercise and health science
Group 5: Mathematics
- Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches (AA)
- Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation (AI)
Both at SL or HL.
Group 6: The arts
- Dance, Film, Music, Theatre, Visual arts
Or a second subject from Groups 2, 3 or 4 instead of Group 6.
HL and SL
- 3 HL and 3 SL (or 4 HL and 2 SL)
- At least one from Groups 1–5
- Check availability at your school
University requirements
Many universities specify subjects and levels (e.g. HL Maths, HL Sciences). Check entry requirements before finalising choices.
How Tutopiya helps
Tutopiya supports all IB subject groups. Explore IB resources or book a free trial.
Source: IB Diploma curriculum
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