The Best IBDP Subject Combinations for Medicine
Looking to pursue Medicine studies after the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP)? Choose your subjects carefully as this may affect where you can apply for medical schools, especially if they include subjects that you must study at Higher Level (HL).
The most ideal subject combination for medicine differs across nations with the IBDP.No one combination of subjects is best for medicine globally. Each country and university has different requirements, students should research their desired medical schools to determine what subjects they should take IB. The IB recommends that students look at the requirements of the university and the degree they plan to study when making subject choices.
Which are the best subjects for Medicine in IB?
A good first combination to look for many aspiring medical students is:
Biology HL + Chemistry HL + Mathematics AA/AI HL
This combination offers a solid scientific base and leaves a number of medical routes available. Biology contributes to an understanding of human biology and physiology, and Chemistry is very relevant to biochemical and pharmaceutical concepts. Maths can develop analytical and quantitative skills.
This is not a rule to follow for all medical schools though.
Is Biology HL Required for Medicine?
The content of Biology HL is of significant benefit for medicine, but the requirement for this differs between Universities. A few medical schools make Biology compulsory, and others will accept another science in addition to Chemistry.
For instance, Biology HL is a mandatory requirement for the Nicosia Medical School, which also requires at least one other science (Chemistry, Physics or Mathematics).
The IB further notes that a non-regular Diploma combination may need to be taken into consideration in some countries, such as Pakistan and India, where applicants for medicine must include three science subjects.
Chemistry HL: A Key Choice for Medical Applicants
Chemistry HL is certainly a subject worth considering for Medicine. Some medical schools make it a requirement for Chemistry at HL.
In the UK, for example, Kent and Medway Medical School will accept either Chemistry or Biology at HL with another mandatory HL subject.
This is why it is best for students to research individual medical schools, rather than sticking with a generic IB subject combination.
What About Physics HL?
For the student considering medicine, Biology HL + Chemistry HL + Physics HL may be an alternative if the student wishes to have a more science intensive programme.
The three demanding sciences can, however, present a high workload. The IB recommends 240 hours of teaching in each subject of the HL compared to 150 hours of teaching in each subject of the SL.
Choosing IB Medicine Subjects in Dubai
In Dubai and the UAE, it is important to take into account both local and international medical schools when choosing a subject. Each medical school in the UK, USA, Canada or elsewhere will have their own admission and IB equivalency requirements, and UAE universities may have their own.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the best three HL subjects for medicine?
Any combination of Biology HL, Chemistry HL and Mathematics HL is a good option - however individual university requirements need to be considered.
Can I study medicine without Biology HL?
Alternatives to Biology may be accepted by some universities, but not by others. Be sure to review the specific target medical schools.
Should I take three sciences at HL?
If your goal schools require it, or if it is extremely beneficial to them, but you can keep up with it.
Can IB Scholars help with medicine subject selection?
Yes. IB Scholars may support students in Dubai and UAE to consider the subject selection choices in the IBDP in relation to their plans for post-secondary education and medical careers.
Contact: +971 55 956 4344 | +971 4355 4850
Website: www.ibscholars.com
Email: ib@ibscholars.com
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