What Are The Key Differences Between IB Geography SL and HL?

1. Curriculum Content: Breadth vs. Depth

• SL Geography covers the core themes (global change, climate, population, resources) and two optional topics for deeper study.

• HL Geography includes everything in SL, plus a third optional theme and the HL extension—Global Interactions, which focuses on flows, risks, and resilience.

Explore detailed breakdowns in our Understanding the Differences Between IB Geography SL and HL guide for comprehensive syllabus insights.

2. Assessment Structure

SL Exams & IA:

• Paper 1 (optional themes): ~90 min, ~35%

• Paper 2 (global change/core): ~75 min, ~40%

• IA: ~1,500‑word fieldwork report (~25%)

HL Exams & IA:

• Paper 1 (three optional themes): ~135 min, ~35%

• Paper 2: same core/global change but reduced weight (~25%)

• Paper 3: HL extension—60 min, ~20%

• IA: ~2,500‑word fieldwork report (~20%)

Find full details in our Geography SL vs HL guide.

3. Teaching Hours & Workload

IB recommends around 150 hours for SL and 240 hours for HL. HL involves more in-depth analysis, greater reading, and stronger expectations on critical thinking.

4. Skill Development

Skill AreaSL GeographyHL GeographyData analysisCore interpretation skillsAdvanced quantitative and qualitative synthesisCase study researchApplied evaluationIntegrated global-scale case studiesFieldworkStandard report writing (~1,500 words)Extended fieldwork analysis (~2,500 words)Essay / exam writingStructured responsesMore in-depth evaluation under tighter weightings

5. When to Choose SL vs HL

Opt for SL if you:

• Prefer manageable depth and workload

• Aren’t considering geography-related degrees

• Want balance with other HL subjects

Choose HL if you:

• Enjoy global themes and complexity

• Plan to study environmental science, urban planning, or international development

• Are comfortable with higher workload and analysis rigor

6. University & Career Relevance

While both levels are accepted, HL Geography is often recommended for careers or university programs in environmental science, sustainability, urban planning, and related fields. SL remains compatible with broader humanities, business, or general social science pathways.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How many topics do SL vs HL students cover?
SL covers 2 optional themes, while HL covers 3 themes plus the Global Interactions extension.

Q2: Is Paper 3 exclusive to HL?
Yes—Paper 3 on Global Interactions is unique to HL and connects deeper global concepts.

Q3: What’s the difference in IA word count?
SL IA is ~1,500 words; HL IA extends to ~2,500 words with more detail and analysis.

Q4: Does HL require stronger writing skills?
Yes—HL demands deeper explanations, stronger evaluation, and more extended writing, especially in Paper 3.

Q5: How much more instruction does HL require?
On average, HL requires around 90 additional hours compared to SL.

Q6: How can RevisionDojo help in choosing and studying?
RevisionDojo provides detailed syllabus comparisons, case study banks, fieldwork planning tools, Paper 1–3 tutorials, and exam strategies tailored to both SL and HL Geography.

Conclusion

Choosing between IB Geography SL and HL comes down to how much depth, time, and academic rigor you’re prepared to commit. SL offers solid coverage and balanced workload, while HL opens doors to deeper global thinking and research skills. Align your decision with your interests, workload capacity, and post-IB plans.

Maximize Your Geography Success with RevisionDojo

Visit RevisionDojo to access tools like syllabus breakdowns, past-paper banks, exam planners, fieldwork templates, and guided study strategies for both SL and HL Geography. Start your free trial today and strengthen your understanding one theme at a time! 🌍