What are the pros and cons of the Cambridge and IB curriculum?

Cambridge Curriculum

Pros:

  • Flexible & Modular: Offers a range of subjects with flexibility, so students can focus on their strengths.
  • International Recognition: Recognized globally and often aligned with UK A-level standards, which benefits university admissions in the UK and Commonwealth countries.
  • Skill Development: Emphasizes knowledge acquisition and application, which can strengthen analytical and problem-solving skills.

Cons:

  • Less Holistic Approach: Focuses more on specific subjects rather than a well-rounded education across all areas.
  • Assessment Focus: Heavily exam-based, which may not suit students who prefer continuous assessment.

IB Curriculum

Pros:

  • Well-Rounded: Covers a wide array of subjects, including arts, science, and humanities, fostering well-rounded development.
  • Critical Thinking & Research: Strong emphasis on critical thinking, global perspective, and independent research (especially through the Extended Essay).
  • Global Recognition: Widely accepted worldwide, particularly in the U.S., Canada, and Europe, making it advantageous for international university applications.

Cons:

  • Challenging & Time-Intensive: The IB can be rigorous, with a high workload across various subjects, which may be challenging for some students.
  • Less Flexibility: Students are required to study a broad range of subjects, which may not allow in-depth focus on specific areas of interest early on.