RevisionDojo✅ Quick Answer: Usually No, But Exceptions Exist
According to the official IBDP (International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme) guidelines, students are typically required to take:
- 3 subjects at Higher Level (HL)
- 3 subjects at Standard Level (SL)
This adds up to six total subjects, the minimum for earning the full IB Diploma.
🎓 Can You Take 4 SLs and Only 2 HLs?
Standard Rule:
- You must take at least 3 HL subjects
- Only 3 SLs are permitted in the standard diploma track
Why?
The IB Diploma is designed to show academic rigor and depth, and HL courses are expected to demonstrate your readiness for university-level work.
⚠️ When Can You Take 4 SLs?
Some exceptions can be made under special circumstances, such as:
- Medical issues
- Personal hardship
- Scheduling conflicts or limited school resources
But in these cases:
- You must still complete all other IB components (TOK, EE, CAS)
- Your school’s IB coordinator must seek approval from the IBO
❗ Note: A diploma with only 2 HL subjects and 4 SL subjects may not meet university entry requirements, especially for competitive programs.
📘 What’s the Difference Between SL and HL?
Standard Level (SL)
- ⏱️ Duration: Approximately 150 teaching hours
- 📚 Depth: Covers core subject material only
- 📝 Assessment: Less demanding with fewer papers and shorter exams
- 🎓 College Credit: Less likely to earn university credit compared to HL
- ✅ Best For: Balancing workload, fulfilling diploma requirements, or exploring subjects outside your intended major
🟥 Higher Level (HL)
- ⏱️ Duration: Approximately 240 teaching hours
- 📚 Depth: Includes core content + additional, more advanced topics
- 📝 Assessment: More rigorous, often includes additional exam papers
- 🎓 College Credit: More likely to be eligible for university credit, especially in U.S. and Canada
- ✅ Best For: Subjects aligned with your college major or career goals
❓ FAQs: 4 SL Subjects in IB
Will I get a full diploma with 4 SLs?
Only if your school and the IBO grant an official exception. Otherwise, it will not fulfill diploma criteria.
Do universities care about 3 HLs?
Yes—top schools often expect at least three HL subjects, especially in your area of interest.
Can I take more than 3 HLs?
Yes—you may take 4 HL subjects, but only 3 will count toward your total diploma points (the highest-scoring 3 HLs are counted).
🚀 Need Help Planning Your IB Subjects?
Whether you're navigating exceptions or maximizing your HL choices, RevisionDojo provides:
- ✅ Personalized course planning tools
- ✅ HL vs SL workload breakdowns
- ✅ Subject-specific guides and IA templates
- ✅ University readiness resources
👉 Visit RevisionDojo and make your IB journey smoother and more strategic.
