stressed and torn between IB and A level

Hi,

So I'm pretty set on studying at uni and going into a career in languages (french particularly possibly also spanish) but the thing is I'm completely torn between choosing IB and A-levels.

I want to do IB because its well-rounding and good prep for uni as well as moulding time management and work ethic. I don't want to do IB because I'm scared and stressed about its difficulty and whether I'll get the high grades as easily as I might at A-Level. Also the CAS and EE is incredibly daunting (I'm not too clued up on ToK so idk if that's gonna be just as hard)
This would be my IB line up:

Group 1 - English (Higher ???)
Group 2 - French (Higher)
Group 3 - Psychology / Social & Cultural Anthropology
Group 4 - Biology/Chemistry (?? def not physics)
Group 5 - Maths Studies
Group 6 - Spanish (Higher)

I'd do A-Levels bc it shows a specialisation (in my languages) but I don't know what to do other than French and Spanish...... nothing interests me

HELP or CONVINCE ME EITHER WAY

To put it shortly, if you're intending on applying to universities in the UK and know what you'd like to study - take A Levels. There is no point in putting yourself through the IB especially as British universities give out easier A level offers. You won't only have an easier time getting the a level grades you'll probably be able to meet your uni offer more easily. However, with that being said if you'd like to do a more well-rounded program then still consider doing IB but it honestly doesn't seem like you're interested. Sure, IB will help prepare you for university but so will A Levels, with a levels you'll need to take the initiative to keep on top of your work on a regular basis to develop those imperative time management skills. The core IB requirements (CAS, EE, TOK) are honestly not as daunting as you're making it out to be. You can easily complete the 150 hours of CAS that are required in your first year of IB if you put in effort. The EE and TOK are hard to do well in but if you're interested/engaged with your EE topic and can understand the concepts taught in TOK then you shouldn't find it too hard.

I personally think you should go for a levels. Not having to do CAS, EE etc will probably reduce your workload and you'll be less stressed out. You can focus on your languages more and you won't be burdened with irrelevant subjects like maths/science. With your a level choices - take spanish, french, english and a social science/humanities or whatever. I'm sure there are other subjects that you're interested in.

Good Luck! Feel free to ask me more questions!

Hi,

So I'm pretty set on studying at uni and going into a career in languages (french particularly possibly also spanish) but the thing is I'm completely torn between choosing IB and A-levels.

I want to do IB because its well-rounding and good prep for uni as well as moulding time management and work ethic. I don't want to do IB because I'm scared and stressed about its difficulty and whether I'll get the high grades as easily as I might at A-Level. Also the CAS and EE is incredibly daunting (I'm not too clued up on ToK so idk if that's gonna be just as hard)
This would be my IB line up:

Group 1 - English (Higher ???)
Group 2 - French (Higher)
Group 3 - Psychology / Social & Cultural Anthropology
Group 4 - Biology/Chemistry (?? def not physics)
Group 5 - Maths Studies
Group 6 - Spanish (Higher)

I'd do A-Levels bc it shows a specialisation (in my languages) but I don't know what to do other than French and Spanish...... nothing interests me

HELP or CONVINCE ME EITHER WAY

I'm currently doing the IB and am finding it great! I consider myself academically well-rounded and am happy to have the opportunity to pursue multiple avenues of learning. It's not as stressful (in the first year) as people think but it depends on the school really. If your self-motivated and passionate about your subjects you can do really well - and the IB is looked upon highly by many universities. The international outlook is also great for someone looking towards a career in languages such as yourself; a career that may very well take you around the world. I know several gifted linguists studying two languages at higher. Its fine as long a you enjoy it. Maths Studies, and English are quite lax in my opinion and depending on your work ethic shouldn't be too challenging. You might find bio/chem workload a little daunting though if you have little interest in science. Is ESS (Environmental Systems and Societies) or similar available at your school? I actually think the toughest element of the course is the compulsory language but seeing as that's your forte there shouldn't be a problem there. Good luck with your choice!

Hi! I've decided to go ahead with the IB now! (I know it looks weird bc I was kinda set on A Levels) My HLs are going to be Spanish, French and English Lit and SLs are Environmental Systems, Social and Cultural Anthropology and Maths Studies I'm actually really looking forward to starting the IB haha

Thank you for helping me~