What is the difference between Higher level and Standard level courses?
Higher level courses require two full years of instruction during the junior and senior years. Students usually choose higher level courses in areas where they have a particular interest or strength. Exams usually choose higher level courses in areas where they have a particular interest or strength. Exams for HL courses will be taken at the end of the senior year. Standard level courses last for one year and can be taken in the junior or senior year. Students usually choose standard level courses in areas where they have less interest or where they perceive themselves to be weaker. Exams are usually taken at the end of the year in which the course is completed. Many full Diploma candidates prefer to take up to two SL exams at the end of their junior year. That leaves only four exams to complete at the end of the senior year. Most SL exams are not recognized by colleges for advanced placement or credit.
