Are There Any Group 6 Subjects Better For STEM Students?
If you're pursuing a science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) path in the IB Diploma Programme, you’ve likely asked yourself: “Should I even take a Group 6 subject?” While Group 6 includes arts-focused subjects like Music, Visual Arts, and Theatre, not all STEM students benefit from including them.
In this guide, we explore which (if any) Group 6 subjects support your STEM trajectory—and when it's smarter to opt for alternatives like an extra science or math subject. We’ll also link you to RevisionDojo guides that break this down in detail.
1. Understanding the IB Subject Groups
Group 6 in the IB program is officially the “Arts” group. It includes:
- Visual Arts
- Theatre
- Dance
- Music
- Film
- Literature and Performance (SL only)
However, you are not required to take a Group 6 subject. The IB allows students to replace it with a second subject from:
- Group 3 (Individuals & Societies)
- Group 4 (Sciences)
- Group 5 (Mathematics)
This flexibility is especially helpful for STEM students, as discussed in Choosing Between IB Sciences, where subject pairing is key to academic goals.
2. Why STEM Students Often Skip Group 6
STEM-related university programs (e.g., engineering, medicine, data science) prioritize science and math-heavy diplomas. Most admissions teams won’t require—or even expect—an arts subject from a STEM applicant.
According to IB subject selection guides, you’re better off using the Group 6 slot for:
- A second Group 4 science (e.g., Chemistry + Physics)
- A more advanced Math course like Math AA HL
- An applied subject like Computer Science
3. When a Group 6 Subject Does Help STEM Students
That said, there are rare cases when a Group 6 course may still support your STEM profile:
- Visual Arts: Useful if you're considering architecture, product design, UX/UI, or engineering with a creative focus.
- Film or Theatre: May help in digital storytelling, media production, or technology-based communication.
- Music: Enhances pattern recognition and mathematical rhythm—sometimes linked to cognitive benefits in math.
RevisionDojo highlights these skill-building overlaps in IB Visual Arts and Design Skills.
4. What the Experts Recommend
- For medicine, engineering, computer science, physics, or data science → Replace Group 6 with a second science or advanced math.
- For interdisciplinary degrees like architecture or tech design → Visual Arts or Film could make sense if paired correctly.
Explore subject combos in How to Choose the Right IB Subjects for Engineering.
5. Real IB Student Advice
Students on Reddit and RevisionDojo forums often say:
“I chose Physics HL, Chem SL, and Math AA HL, dropping Group 6 for Computer Science. It made my STEM application stronger.”
“Visual Arts SL helped me apply to architecture—but only because I had Math AA HL and Physics HL.”
For more personal takes, read What I Wish I Knew Before Starting the IB Diploma, where students share subject regrets and wins.
FAQs
Q: Is it okay to skip Group 6 entirely?
Yes. The IB allows one subject substitution if it aligns with your goals.
Q: Can I take Computer Science instead of an arts subject?
Yes. It counts as a Group 4 subject and is widely respected in STEM pathways.
Q: Will dropping Group 6 make my diploma look less “balanced”?
Not if your intended major is science-focused. Admissions teams value alignment over aesthetic balance.
Conclusion: Group 6 Isn’t Essential for STEM
If you’re aiming for a STEM degree, don’t feel obligated to include a Group 6 subject. Prioritize your sciences and mathematics, and only opt for a Group 6 course if it genuinely aligns with your goals (e.g., architecture or creative tech).
🎯 For personalized subject planners, downloadable IB course comparison charts, and major-specific guidance, visit RevisionDojo.com—your go-to hub for making smarter IB decisions.
