When students choose IB subjects, popularity often plays a major role. While some subjects attract huge global cohorts, others are taken by far fewer students each year. This naturally leads to an important question: are least popular IB subjects risky choices?
The short answer is no — but the full answer is more nuanced.
This article breaks down which IB subjects were least popular in 2025, why enrolment is lower, and how students should think about subject popularity when making smart, strategic decisions.
Quick Start Checklist
- Which IB subjects had the lowest enrolment in 2025
- Why some subjects attract fewer students
- Common myths about “hard” IB subjects
- When choosing a less popular subject makes sense
- How RevisionDojo supports niche IB subjects
What Are the Least Popular IB Subjects in 2025?
While exact enrolment numbers vary by region, the least popular IB subjects globally tend to include:
- Physics (especially at Higher Level)
- Higher Level Mathematics courses
- Certain Group 6 Arts subjects
- Niche language options with small cohorts
These subjects are offered by fewer schools, require stronger prerequisites, or appeal to more specific interests — all of which reduce enrolment.
Low popularity does not mean low quality or poor outcomes.
Why Do Some IB Subjects Have Low Enrolment?
There are several practical reasons why some IB subjects attract fewer students.
First, availability matters. Not every school offers Physics HL, advanced Maths options, or a full range of Arts subjects due to staffing or timetable constraints.
Second, perceived difficulty plays a role. Subjects involving heavy mathematical reasoning or abstract concepts often intimidate students, even if they are capable.
Finally, career misconceptions influence choices. Some students incorrectly believe niche subjects are less useful for university, which pushes them toward “safer” options.
The Biggest Myth: “Less Popular Means Harder”
One of the most persistent IB myths is that least popular subjects are harder to score well in.
In reality:
- Grade boundaries adjust for subject difficulty
- Smaller cohorts allow clearer differentiation
- Strong students often stand out more easily
- Examiner expectations are consistent across subjects
Students who enjoy the subject and commit fully often perform extremely well in less popular courses.
When Choosing a Less Popular Subject Is a Smart Move
Less popular subjects can be excellent choices if:
- You genuinely enjoy the subject matter
- You have strong foundational skills
- Your school offers good teaching support
- The subject aligns with your future goals
In many cases, students in smaller cohorts receive more individual attention and clearer feedback — a major advantage.
Common Mistakes Students Make With Niche Subjects
While low enrolment is not a disadvantage, poor preparation is.
Common mistakes include:
- Assuming fewer students means lower expectations
- Underestimating exam technique requirements
- Relying too heavily on content memorisation
- Not practising exam-style questions early
Every IB subject is criterion-based. Mastering the criteria matters far more than how many students take the course.
How to Decide if a Least Popular Subject Is Right for You
Instead of asking “Is this subject popular?”, students should ask:
- Do I enjoy studying this subject consistently?
- Am I willing to practise and improve over time?
- Do I understand how I’ll be assessed?
- Does this subject support my strengths?
Answering these questions honestly leads to far better outcomes than following trends.
Why RevisionDojo Works for Less Popular IB Subjects
Students in niche subjects often struggle to find structured revision support. This is where RevisionDojo makes a real difference.
RevisionDojo helps by:
- Clarifying assessment criteria
- Providing structured exam practice
- Teaching students how to approach unfamiliar questions
- Reinforcing understanding rather than rote learning
- Supporting confidence in smaller cohorts
No subject should feel unsupported — and with the right tools, none has to be.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are least popular IB subjects graded more harshly?
No. The IB standardises grading across subjects using criteria and boundaries. Smaller cohorts do not mean stricter marking. Strong performance is rewarded consistently.
Will universities look down on niche IB subjects?
Universities care about results and relevance, not enrolment size. Strong grades in demanding subjects often strengthen applications rather than weaken them.
Should I choose a subject just because it’s less popular?
No. You should never choose a subject purely to stand out. Interest, ability, and commitment matter far more than enrolment numbers.
Final Thoughts
Least popular IB subjects are not traps — they are simply different. Lower enrolment reflects availability and perception, not value or potential.
Students who choose subjects they enjoy, understand the criteria, and prepare strategically often thrive regardless of popularity. With the right approach and the right support, any IB subject can become a strength — and that’s exactly what RevisionDojo is built to support.
