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IB subject choosing

Hii, I need a little advice regarding subject choices. Any help is appreciated! For some context, I’m starting IBDP next year and doesn’t have to choose between HLSL for my subjects yet. (It’s a bridging year between the local program and the IBDP) I plan on studying architecture in uni.
How is this selection of subjects?
G1: English Lang Lit
G2: Chinese Lang Lit
G3: Psychology
G4: Physics
G5: Math (No choosing between AA/AI yet)
G6: This is the one I need the most advice on! I can’t decide on choosing chemistry or VA. Chemistry is a subject I love and is good at, while VA is also a subject I like but seems to be have a notorious reputation and is quite difficult according to online discussions I’ve read. I would be choosing Chemistry if a portfolio weren’t required for the application to Architecture courses in Universities. Some suggest working on the portfolio as apart of CAS or as a side project. But would I have enough time for it?
(edited 10 months ago)
Reply 1
Hi! I think the most practical approach for yourself is to find out which of the universities that you would most likely apply to for Architecture requires a portfolio. I believe most do, and so to keep your options open, it would make sense to choose VA. I do not believe that working on a portfolio for CAS is a good idea, as you would almost not have enough time. It makes sense to kill 2 birds with one stone, i.e. VA works = portfolio for submission.

Some architecture schools want HL Math.

HL Physics is a plus but it is also not a subject requirement unless stated.

Instead of Psychology, I think Geography would be more relevant for Architecture.
Original post by Eva Zhuang
Hii, I need a little advice regarding subject choices. Any help is appreciated! For some context, I’m starting IBDP next year and doesn’t have to choose between HLSL for my subjects yet. (It’s a bridging year between the local program and the IBDP) I plan on studying architecture in uni.
How is this selection of subjects?
G1: English Lang Lit
G2: Chinese Lang Lit
G3: Psychology
G4: Physics
G5: Math (No choosing between AA/AI yet)
G6: This is the one I need the most advice on! I can’t decide on choosing chemistry or VA. Chemistry is a subject I love and is good at, while VA is also a subject I like but seems to be have a notorious reputation and is quite difficult according to online discussions I’ve read. I would be choosing Chemistry if a portfolio weren’t required for the application to Architecture courses in Universities. Some suggest working on the portfolio as apart of CAS or as a side project. But would I have enough time for it?


Most architecture courses don't require specific subjects, but the majority will require a portfolio as part of the application process so including a creative subject would be ideal. Maths and/or physics are only required for a few courses, so if they are not your strong subjects, you could swap them for something else. Have a look at the following thread:

https://www.thestudentroom.co.uk/showthread.php?t=7361710
Reply 3
Even if Unis do not want or prefer Maths and/or Physics HL, these subjects will be useful - Architecture is not just about 'art'.

And remember, many Architecture students take a Foundation Diploma in Art & Design as part of a gap year between school and Uni - this gives you access to the best facilities and expertise to compile the best portfolio that you can - Art & Design Foundation Diplomas (Art foundation) (thecompleteuniversityguide.co.uk)

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