For internationally mobile families living in Greece, choosing the right secondary education pathway is a critical decision. Choosing between international baccalaureate and Advnaced Placement can be a complex process, so it’s important to understand what each programme offers. Two of the most respected international programmes are Advanced Placement (AP) and the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) offered by the International Baccalaureate.
For internationally mobile families in Greece, conversations about high school often begin earlier than expected. Middle school moves quickly. Suddenly, grades matter more. Course choices begin shaping university options. Transcripts start telling a story about who a student is becoming.
But before diving into programme comparisons, let’s pause.
High school is important — but it is also a time of discovery. Students are changing rapidly: socially, emotionally, intellectually. Interests evolve. Confidence grows. Independence increases. This is a time to explore, take thoughtful risks, and learn what genuinely sparks curiosity.
With that grounding in place, we can ask the practical question:
Should students try to earn university-level credit in high school? And if so, should they choose AP or IB?
If you are evaluating whether the IB Diploma is the right fit, we recommend first reading our Complete Guide to the IB Diploma in Greece for Expat Families, where we explain:
- How the IB Diploma works
- Subject selection and Higher Level requirements
- University recognition in Europe, the UK, and the US
- Why the IB is considered revolutionary
What Is the AP Program?
The Advanced Placement (AP) program is administered by the College Board and is most commonly offered in American and American-style international schools. In Greece the Advanced Placement diploma is offered by the American Community Schools ( ACS). AP allows students to select individual advanced courses, each culminating in a standardized external examination graded on a scale of 1 to 5.
AP allows students to select individual advanced courses, each culminating in a standardized external examination graded on a scale of 1 to 5.
The Advanced Placement (AP) programme is administered by the College Board. AP allows students to take individual college-level courses during high school. There are nearly 40 subject options, and each culminates in a standardized external examination graded on a scale of 1 to 5. If a student earns a 3, 4, or 5 (depending on the university), they may receive college credit.
Key Characteristics of AP
- Students choose individual subjects (e.g., AP Biology, AP Calculus). Each course is aligned to first year university standards.
- No mandatory core components.
- Assessment primarily based on a final exam, which is the same worldwide, regardless of school.
- University credit often granted for scores of 3 or higher
AP provides flexibility and specialization.
An Important Perspective on AP
AP courses are genuinely equivalent to first-year university classes. That means they require:
- Consistent study habits
- Strong time management
- Deep conceptual understanding
Students sometimes take multiple AP classes “to maximize college credit.” However, without genuine interest or readiness, this approach can lead to stress and imbalance.
AP is most valuable when taken:
- Out of passion for a subject
- Out of readiness for academic challenge
- Not simply as a résumé strategy
For expat families in Greece targeting U.S. universities, AP can be a strong and familiar option.
What Is the IB Diploma Programme?
The IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) is a structured two-year academic programme for students aged 16–19.
Unlike AP, the IB is a comprehensive framework requiring:
- Six subjects across defined academic groups
- Three mandatory core components:
- Extended Essay (4,000-word research paper)
- Theory of Knowledge (TOK)
- Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)
- Extended Essay (4,000-word research paper)
Students are graded on a scale of up to 45 points.
For a deeper breakdown of IB subject groups, assessment methods, and university entry requirements, read our in-depth IB Diploma structure and scoring guide.
AP vs IB: Key Differences Explained
1. Programme Structure
AP
- Flexible subject selection
- Students build their own academic profile
- No required interdisciplinary component
IB
- Fixed structure across six subject areas
- Mandatory research and reflection
- Designed as a cohesive two-year experience
For internationally mobile families, IB’s standardized structure often ensures smoother academic transitions between countries.
2. Breadth vs Specialization
AP encourages specialization.
Students may focus heavily on mathematics, sciences, or humanities.
IB requires academic breadth.
Students must study languages, sciences, mathematics, and social sciences simultaneously.
This makes IB particularly appealing for families seeking a balanced international education.
3. Assessment Style
AP
- Mostly exam-based
- Performance depends heavily on one final test
- Limited mandatory research writing
IB
- Combination of exams and internal coursework
- Significant essay writing
- Independent research required
IB rewards sustained engagement over two years.
4. Research and Critical Thinking
The IB Diploma requires every student to complete a 4,000-word Extended Essay — a major independent research project.
AP does not include a universal research thesis component.
Families who value early academic research preparation often prefer the IB model.
5. Workload and Academic Intensity
AP workload varies depending on how many AP courses a student selects.
IB workload is consistently demanding due to:
- Six subjects
- Extended Essay
- TOK
- CAS commitments
Students must demonstrate strong time management and independent study skills.
6. University Recognition for Expat Families
Both AP and IB are widely recognized internationally.
However:
- U.S. universities are traditionally familiar with AP scoring.
- UK and European universities frequently publish specific IB entry requirements.
- The IB’s global standardization may offer greater predictability for internationally mobile families.
For a full overview of IB university pathways, see our guide to IB Diploma university recognition worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is IB harder than AP?
The IB Diploma is generally considered more demanding overall because it requires six subjects plus core components such as the Extended Essay and Theory of Knowledge. However, taking multiple AP courses can also be academically challenging.
Do universities prefer IB or AP?
Universities value both programmes. In the United States, AP is widely recognized and often used for credit. In the United Kingdom and Europe, universities frequently publish specific IB Diploma entry requirements. The best choice depends on intended university destinations.
Is the IB better for internationally mobile families?
The IB is often better suited to internationally mobile families because it is standardized globally and offered in schools worldwide, allowing smoother transitions between countries.
Can students take both AP and IB?
In some schools, students may take individual AP subjects alongside the IB Diploma. However, this depends on school policy and workload considerations.
Which is better in Greece: AP or IB?
For expat families in Greece who may relocate or apply to international universities, the IB Diploma often provides broader global alignment. AP may be ideal for families targeting U.S. universities specifically.
A Final Word for Families
It is easy to get caught up in transcripts, university entry requirements, and future career paths. But remember:
High school is still a time of growth.
Encourage students to:
- Stay curious
- Explore interests
- Take thoughtful academic risks
- Reflect on who they are becoming
AP and IB are both rigorous and respected pathways. The right choice depends not only on university strategy, but on who your child is today — and who they are becoming.Choosing between AP and IB is not about selecting the more difficult programme. It is about alignment with:
- Your child’s learning style
- University destinations
- Long-term relocation plans
- Preference for flexibility or structured breadth
