Hardest IB Subjects: Which Courses Are Most Challenging?

If you search for the hardest IB subjects, you will find plenty of rankings. But a ranking cannot tell you which subject will be hardest for you.

Historical IB results can reveal interesting patterns, but subject averages are influenced by the students who choose each course, the schools they attend and the support available to them. So the better question is not simply “Which IB subject is hardest?” but “Which subjects are likely to challenge me, and how should I choose?”

What Do Historical IB Scores Tell Us?

Lanterna's comparison uses 2019 IB statistical data to highlight courses with relatively low average results. The figures below are useful as historical context, not as a current or universal difficulty ranking.

The original competitor analysis uses these historical figures to explore which courses had lower averages. It also points out that the numbers need context before being treated as a measure of difficulty.

Why a Low Average Does Not Automatically Mean “Hardest”

A subject's average result is shaped by more than its syllabus.

• Students choose subjects according to different strengths and interests.
• HL and SL groups can attract different student profiles.
• Teaching experience and school resources vary.
• Some subjects have coursework or assessment formats that suit certain learners more than others.

For that reason, a lower global average should be treated as a signal to investigate—not a reason to avoid a subject.

Which IB Subjects Can Feel Challenging?

English A Literature HL

The challenge is not simply reading literature. Students need to interpret texts, develop an argument and communicate analysis clearly and consistently.

History HL

History combines a substantial body of content with evidence-based writing. Students need to select relevant material and use it to support a focused argument.

Chemistry

Chemistry can demand a mix of conceptual understanding, calculations and scientific interpretation. Students may struggle when they memorise processes without understanding the chemistry behind them.

Mathematics

Mathematics becomes more demanding when students face unfamiliar problems. Strong foundations and the ability to apply ideas—not just recall procedures—make a significant difference.

Visual Arts HL

Visual Arts has a different type of workload. Sustained creative development, documentation and assessment requirements can make planning and consistency especially important.

What About TOK and the Extended Essay?

The IB Diploma is not only about six subjects. TOK and the Extended Essay add another layer of academic work, and their assessment requires students to build arguments, evaluate ideas and communicate clearly.

Historical results can show broad patterns, but they do not predict what an individual student will achieve. A focused question, clear reasoning and appropriate guidance can make a substantial difference.

Should You Avoid a Difficult IB Subject?

Usually, no.

A subject with a lower historical average may still be an excellent choice for you if it matches your strengths, interests and university plans.

• Choose subjects that fit your academic strengths.
• Check the requirements of the university courses you may apply for.
• Consider whether you genuinely want to study the subject for two years.
• Understand the workload and assessment style before committing.
• Look at the support available if you know a particular area will be challenging.

A Better Way to Choose Your IB Subjects

Instead of asking which subjects are easiest, use this four-part check:

Strength

Which subjects are you already performing well in?

Interest

Which areas can you stay engaged with over two years?

Future plans

Which subjects or HL levels support your intended university pathway?

Support

Where are you likely to need additional explanation, practice or feedback?

Already Struggling With a Challenging Subject?

A difficult subject does not necessarily mean you made the wrong choice. First identify what is actually causing the problem.

• A gap in earlier concepts
• Difficulty applying concepts to unfamiliar questions
• Weak exam technique
• Essay or extended-response structure
• Data analysis or interpretation
• Time management

Mentor Match's personalised 1:1 model is designed around identifying a student's starting point and then building support around the curriculum and learning need, rather than using the same approach for every student. 

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Final Takeaway

There is no universally hardest IB subject. Historical results can provide useful context, but your strengths, interests, university plans and available support matter more when choosing subjects.

Choose subjects that challenge you without creating an unsustainable workload. If you're already struggling with a difficult subject, identifying the specific gap early can be more useful than simply studying longer.

Ready for personalised IB support? Book a Free Demo Class with Mentor Match.

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FAQs

What is the hardest IB subject?

There is no universally hardest IB subject. Historical averages can highlight challenging patterns, but individual strengths, school support and student selection all affect results.

Is Math AA HL the hardest IB subject?

Math AA HL can be demanding because of its depth and problem-solving requirements, but difficulty depends heavily on a student's mathematical foundation and learning approach.

Are HL subjects always harder than SL?

HL generally involves greater depth, but global averages alone cannot be used to create a reliable difficulty ranking.

Should I choose an IB subject because its average score is high?

No. Consider your strengths, interests, university requirements, workload and available support before using global statistics as a deciding factor.

Which IB subjects are hardest to score a 7 in?

Historical grade distributions can show differences between subjects, but they should not be treated as a fixed ranking of how difficult a 7 is for every student.

Can tutoring help with a difficult IB subject?

Yes. Effective tutoring can identify the specific academic gap, connect learning to the curriculum and provide targeted practice and feedback. Mentor Match uses personalised 1:1 support rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.