Introduction
If you’re an IB parent, you’ve probably already heard your teen debating subject levels:
“Should I take Math HL?”
“Can I switch Chemistry from HL to SL?”
“Do universities even care which level I take?”
These decisions can feel overwhelming because they don’t just affect your child’s IB experience — they also affect their future university applications. As a parent, it’s natural to wonder:
“Do universities really care whether my child took HL or SL in their IB subjects?”
The short answer: yes, sometimes — but not always. It depends on the subject, the course your child is applying for, and the university’s requirements. Let’s break it down so you can help your child make confident, informed choices.
HL vs SL: What’s the Difference?
- Standard Level (SL): Requires fewer teaching hours (150) and covers the subject at a general level.
- Higher Level (HL): Requires more teaching hours (240) and dives deeper, with more complex content and higher expectations.
Both count equally toward the IB Diploma score, but HLs are considered more academically demanding.
When Universities Care About HL vs SL
1. Career-Specific Requirements
Some university courses require HL subjects. For example:
- Medicine: HL Chemistry (and often HL Biology).
- Engineering: HL Mathematics and HL Physics.
- Economics: HL Mathematics (especially at competitive universities).
- Law, Politics, Humanities: HL essay-based subjects (History, English, etc.) are often valued.
2. Competitive Universities
Top universities (like Oxbridge, Ivy League, or highly ranked institutions) often want applicants with strong HLs that directly link to their chosen degree.
3. Subject Readiness
HL subjects show universities that your child can handle advanced academic challenges. Even if not required, strong HLs demonstrate preparation.
When Universities Don’t Care About HL vs SL
- Non-Specific Degrees: For broad programs (like Liberal Arts), universities may be more flexible about HL/SL choices.
- Supportive Admissions: Some universities care more about the overall IB score than the specific subject levels.
- Complementary Strengths: If your child applies for a science degree but has HL English instead of HL Chemistry, universities may consider other strengths in their application — though this is riskier.
Parent Concerns About HL vs SL
- “What if HL is too hard and my child’s grades drop?”
- “Should I encourage my child to switch HL to SL for balance?”
- “Does taking HL in the wrong subject hurt chances?”
Here’s the reassurance: choosing HLs wisely matters more than loading up on as many HLs as possible. Universities prefer strong, consistent grades over a student who crumbles under the weight of unnecessary HLs.
How to Guide Your Teen in HL/SL Choices
- Look at University Requirements Together
If your child has a specific career goal, check entry requirements now. Don’t wait until Year 2 of IB. - Balance Ambition and Wellbeing
Encourage challenge, but not at the expense of health. Three HLs is already demanding — don’t push more unless truly necessary. - Play to Strengths
If your child loves a subject, HL is more manageable. If they dread it, HL may cause unnecessary stress. - Keep Options Open
For undecided teens, choose HLs that are versatile (like HL Math or HL English). These keep pathways flexible.
How RevisionDojo Helps with HL and SL Success
Whether your child takes SL or HL, the challenge is managing the workload and excelling in exams. That’s where RevisionDojo makes the difference:
- HL Strategy: Breaks down complex HL material into clear, structured steps.
- SL Confidence: Ensures your child doesn’t underestimate SL — strong performance here boosts overall points.
- Balanced Planning: Study timetables that prevent burnout while covering all levels.
- Future Readiness: Helps students develop study habits that prepare them for university expectations, regardless of subject level.
👉 Support your child’s IB journey with RevisionDojo
FAQs for Parents
1. Do universities care more about HL than final IB points?
Both matter. A strong IB score is crucial, but for certain degrees, HL subjects are non-negotiable.
2. What if my child regrets their HL choices?
Many schools allow changes early in Year 1. It’s worth discussing with teachers if stress becomes unmanageable.
3. Should my child take more than three HLs?
Not unless they are exceptionally confident. Three HLs is enough to impress universities. Four is only necessary in very rare cases.
4. Can SL subjects still impress universities?
Yes. Strong SL grades show consistency and balance. They also keep the overall IB score high, which universities value.
5. How can RevisionDojo help with HL stress?
By providing structured resources, RevisionDojo helps students stay on top of demanding HL workloads while preventing burnout.
Conclusion
So, do universities care whether your child takes HL or SL? Yes — when the HL is essential to the degree they want to study. For other pathways, the overall IB score and balanced performance matter more.
As a parent, your job is to guide your child toward smart choices — but you don’t have to carry the academic pressure yourself. That’s what RevisionDojo is built for: structured strategies, stress management, and exam confidence for both HL and SL.
