Math AA: Analysis and Approaches
Emphasizes mathematical reasoning, algebraic fluency, abstract problems, functions and calculus. The current AA Paper 1 does not allow technology.
Available at both SL and HL.
Quick answer reviewed August 20, 2026
IB Math AA (Analysis and Approaches) vs Math AI (Applications and Interpretation)
IB Math AA focuses more on analytical reasoning, algebra, functions and calculus, while Math AI focuses more on modelling, statistics, real-world interpretation and technology. Both Analysis and Approaches (AA) and Applications and Interpretation (AI) are offered at Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL); HL covers greater depth and breadth. Neither route is automatically the right choice for every degree. Match the course and level to your strengths, then verify the published mathematics requirements for each university program you may apply to.
Math AI: Applications and Interpretation
Emphasizes mathematical modelling, statistics, real-world contexts, interpretation and technology. The current AI external papers use technology.
Available at both SL and HL.
Current syllabus vs the 2027 update
The detailed guide below describes the current AA and AI courses, introduced for first teaching in August 2019 and first assessment in May 2021. IB has also published updated courses for first teaching in August 2027 and first assessment in May 2029. Students assessed before May 2029 should use the current syllabus, not the upcoming one.
Official update pages: AA 2029 update and AI 2029 update.
Here, we have discussed the topics covered in MYP Mathematics, Math SL AA, Math HL AA, Math SL AI and Math HL AI. We have checked their differences and we have given tips for studying effectively for the final test. See also our IB Math SL/HL guide and tips to ace your IB exams.
Comprehensive Overview of IB DP and IB MYP Math
SUMMARY
Click the links above for complete details.
IB Mathematics Roadmap
Navigating the IB Mathematics landscape can be challenging. This guide breaks down the MYP and the four IBDP Math courses (AA SL/HL, AI SL/HL) to help you choose the right path for your goals and strengths. Explore our IB Math tutoring services.
Mathematics for the Middle Years Programme (MYP)
MYP Mathematics (Ages 11-16)
The MYP Programme focuses on helping students "learn how to learn." An optional on-screen examination, a personal project, and community service are part of the MYP certificate.
Levels:
Standard:Basic mathematical concepts that are still above provincewide content.
Extended:Supplements standard level with additional topics for greater depth. Recommended for students planning to take Math AA (SL or HL).
Teaching Time:
50-70 hours depending on the level.
Assessment Criteria:
- Knowing and Understanding
- Investigating Patterns
- Communicating
- Applying mathematics in real-life contexts
Four Branches of MYP Math:
1. Numbers
Forms of numbers, systems, prime numbers, sets, Venn diagrams, ratio, percentage. Extended: fractional exponents, logarithms.
2. Algebra
Operations, factorization, functions (linear, quadratic, etc.), inequalities. Extended: log with different bases, inverse/composite functions.
3. Geometry & Trigonometry
Distance, angles, triangle properties, Pythagoras, trig ratios, circle geometry. Extended: 3D coordinates, vectors, sine/cosine rules.
4. Statistics & Probability
Graphical representation, sampling, mean/mode/median, probability. Extended: standard deviation, conditional probability.
Mathematics for IB Diploma Programme (IBDP)
Since August 2019, the IBDP offers two main routes for mathematics, each available at Standard Level (SL) or Higher Level (HL). Compare the available IB mathematics credit policies as part of your university planning:
Analysis & Approaches (AA)Applications & Interpretation (AI)
Math AA is for students who enjoy mathematical problem solving and generalization. Math AI is for students who enjoy mathematics best when seen in a practical context.
IBDP Standard Level (SL) Courses
Analysis & Approaches SL (AA SL)
Suited for: Students who enjoy math and may pursue university courses with a reasonable amount of mathematics (e.g., Economics, Biology).
Note: For STEM majors at top universities, Math HL is often recommended.
Syllabus Outline (150 teaching hrs total for SL):
- 📚 Number and Algebra (19 hrs)
- 📚 Functions (21 hrs)
- 📚 Geometry & Trigonometry (25 hrs)
- 📚 Statistics and Probability (27 hrs)
- 📚 Calculus (28 hrs)
Applications & Interpretation SL (AI SL)
Suited for: Students who don't plan math as an essential part of university studies (e.g., Law, Psychology, Languages). Emphasizes fundamental concepts over complex manipulation.
Considered the least academically demanding of the four courses.
Syllabus Outline (150 teaching hrs total for SL):
- 📚 Number and Algebra (16 hrs)
- 📚 Functions (31 hrs)
- 📚 Geometry & Trigonometry (18 hrs)
- 📚 Statistics and Probability (36 hrs)
- 📚 Calculus (19 hrs)
Assessment for Math AA SL & AI SL
| Assessment | Format | Time (hr) | Weight (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| External (EA) | Paper 1 (No GDC): Short-response questions | 1.5 | 40 |
| Paper 2 (GDC Required): Extended-response questions | 1.5 | 40 | |
| Internal (IA) | Project: Personal project involving data collection/generation, analysis, and evaluation. | - | 20 |
EA marked by IBO examiners. IA assessed by teacher, moderated by IBO.
IBDP Higher Level (HL) Courses
HL courses are for students anticipating mathematics as a major component of their university studies (e.g., math, engineering, physics). HL courses cover SL topics in greater depth plus additional HL-specific content. (240 teaching hrs total for HL)
Analysis & Approaches HL (AA HL)
Suited for: Students strongest at math, aiming for math-intensive university courses (e.g., Engineering, Computer Science, Math). Similar to the old Math HL.
Additional HL Topics (beyond SL):
- 📚 Number & Algebra (39 hrs total): Permutations, Combinations, Complex Numbers, De Moivre's Theorem, Proofs (induction, contradiction).
- 📚 Functions (32 hrs total): Polynomial functions, Factor/Remainder theorem, Odd/Even functions.
- 📚 Geometry & Trigonometry (51 hrs total): Reciprocal trig ratios, Compound angle identities, Vectors (equations of planes, intersections).
- 📚 Statistics & Probability (33 hrs total): Bayes' theorem, Variance of discrete random variable, Continuous random variable.
- 📚 Calculus (55 hrs total): Continuity/Differentiability, L'Hôpital's rule, Maclaurin series, Implicit differentiation, Integration by parts, Volumes of revolution.
Applications & Interpretation HL (AI HL)
Suited for: Students strong in math interested in applications, but not necessarily pursuing math-intensive degrees (e.g., Biology, Chemistry, Economics). An entirely new addition.
Additional HL Topics (beyond SL):
- 📚 Number & Algebra (29 hrs total): Sum of infinite geometric sequences, Complex Numbers (polar, exponential), Matrix operations, Eigenvalues/Eigenvectors.
- 📚 Functions (42 hrs total): Composite/Inverse functions, Logistic/Logarithmic models, Piecewise models.
- 📚 Geometry & Trigonometry (46 hrs total): Radians, Ambiguous case (sine rule), Matrix transformations, Vector applications to kinematics, Adjacency matrices.
- 📚 Statistics & Probability (52 hrs total): Reliability/Validity tests, Non-linear regression, Central limit theorem, Confidence intervals, Poisson distribution, Transition matrices.
- 📚 Calculus (41 hrs total): Related rates of change, Second derivative applications, Slope fields, Euler's method.
Assessment for Math AA HL & AI HL
| Assessment | Format | Time (hr) | Weight (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| External (EA) - 5 hrs total | Paper 1 (No Calculator): Short & extended response | 2 | 30 |
| Paper 2 (GDC Required): Short & extended response | 2 | 30 | |
| Paper 3 (GDC Required): Extended response (options) | 1 | 20 | |
| Internal (IA) | Project: Personal project involving data collection/generation, analysis, and evaluation. | - | 20 |
EA marked by IBO examiners. IA assessed by teacher, moderated by IBO.
Key Considerations When Choosing Your IB Math Course
Your Interest & Skill
What's your current comfort level and enjoyment of mathematics? Choose a course that aligns with your strengths and passion.
Future Pathways
Research university program requirements for your desired majors. Ensure your chosen math course meets these prerequisites.
Top Tips for IB Math Success!
Understand Concepts
Focus on comprehending principles over memorizing question types. IB changes problem styles.
Seek Help Early
Don't ignore difficult material. Get specialized IB tutoring if needed. Contact us for IB Math support.
Consistent Practice
Do a little bit of math every day. Math is about practice, practice, practice.
Study in Advance
Last-minute cramming rarely works due to the depth of concepts and problem-solving skills needed.
Review Past Topics
Continuously review older material as final exams are comprehensive.
Utilize Online Resources
Explore free materials available online. Check out our free IB resources page.
Practice Past Papers
Familiarize yourself with IB exam question styles and follow mark schemes.
Time Yourself
Practice exams under timed conditions to improve time management.
Understand Mistakes
Learn from errors during practice to avoid repeating them.
DETAILED EXPLANATIONS
MATHEMATICS FOR THE MIDDLE YEAR PROGRAMME (MYP)
Students aged 11 to 16 are enrolled in the MYP Programme in which IB students "learn how to learn". Students who seek an MYP math certificate may take a two-hour on-screen examination while carrying out a mid-level personal project and completing community service. Learn more about the IB programme structure.
MYP Mathematics Math IB is presented at two levels: standard and extended. Standard Mathematics aims to provide students with knowledge of basic mathematical concepts, while Extended Mathematics supplements the standard level, introducing additional topics and concepts to encourage greater depth and breadth of comprehension. Students planning to take Math AA (either SL or HL) are strongly recommended to take the extended version of MYP 5.
MYP mathematics (1 through 5 (pre-diploma)) consists of four branches of math that include:
1. Numbers
Topics covered in both standard and extended level include forms of number (integers, fractions, decimals, absolute value, etc), number systems, prime number & factors, sets, Venn diagrams, number lines, estimation, ratio & percentage, number sequences, and integer exponents.
Topics only covered in the extended level include fractional exponents, logarithms, and number bases. Four basic operations for whole numbers, integers, decimals and fractions, number lines, rounding, …
2. Algebra
Topics covered in both standard and extended levels include basic algebraic operations, factorization, substitution, simplification, integer & fractional exponents, patterns & sequences, algorithms, functions (linear, quadratic, exponential, trigonometric), domain & range, transformations, and inequalities.
Topics only covered in the extended level include logarithm with different base number, functions & graphs (inverse and composite), arithmetic & geometric sequences.
building expressions, simplifying expressions, expansion rules, solving equations, linear inequalities, factorization, rational equations, …
3. Geometry and Trigonometry
Topics covered in both standard and extended level include distance formula, angle properties, triangle properties (similar triangles, pythagoras' theorem), perimeter/area/volume, the cartesian plane, trigonometric ratios, simple transformations (rotations, reflection, translation, stretches), circle geometry (chord length, angles & arcs).
Topics only covered in the extended level include 3D coordinate geometry, similarity & congruence, vectors, sine & cosine rules, trigonometric identities, angle measures (use of radians), the unit circle.
angles, lines, parallels and perpendicular lines, parallelism, triangles, quadrilaterals, polygons, circles, 3D objects, coordinate geometry, trigonometric ratios, sine and cosine rules, solving a triangle, …
4. Statistics and Probability
Topics covered in both standard and extended level include graphical representation (pie charts, histograms, line graphs, scatter plots, box-and-whisker), population sampling, mean/mode/median, range, interquartile range, probability (of independent, mutually exclusive, combined, successive events).
Topics only covered in the extended level include standard deviation, conditional probability, samples and populations, dot tables, tally and frequency tables, column graphs, pie charts, plots, mean, median, mode and range, experimental probability, Venn diagram, probability of two-way table, multiplying probabilities and compound events…
The new HL pre-diploma curriculum (MYP 5) covers most of the DP Math 11 SL topics. However, different schools have different approaches as the IB organization does not mandate the exact topics.
MYP requires 50-70 hours of teaching time depending on the level. For completing the course students need to complete an end-of-term on-screen examination.
The students in MYP math are assessed on a scale from 1 to 8 according to the following four criteria: "Knowing and Understanding, Investigating Patterns, Communicating, and Applying mathematics in real-life contexts." You can find a sample MYP maths question released by the IB. See our MYP Assessment Guide for more details.
MATHEMATICS FOR IB DIPLOMA PROGRAMME (IBDP)
In August 2019, IB introduced new changes to the Diploma Programme Math curriculum. The previous 4 routes (Math Studies, Math SL, Math HL, and Further Math) were replaced by 2 routes: Analysis and Approaches (AA) and Applications and Interpretation (AI). Each route offers both Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL). Learn more about IB Diploma grading.
The new curriculum aims to provide students with a more relevant mathematical education that aligns with their academic interests and future career paths. You can review the official IB Mathematics Guide (2021) for the full syllabus details. See also our complete IB Math SL/HL guide.
ANALYSIS AND APPROACHES SL (MATH AA SL)
This course is designed for students who enjoy developing mathematical arguments, problem solving, and exploring real and abstract applications. It is suitable for students who wish to pursue studies in mathematics, engineering, physical sciences, and some economics courses.
Syllabus Outline
Topic 1: Number and Algebra (19 hours)
- Scientific notation
- Arithmetic and geometric sequences and series
- Compound interest and annual depreciation
- Exponents and logarithms
- Simple proof, including proof by contradiction
- Binomial theorem
Topic 2: Functions (21 hours)
- Equations of straight lines, gradient, parallel and perpendicular lines
- Concept of function, domain, range, composite, and inverse functions
- Quadratic functions, completing the square, vertex form
- Solving quadratic equations and inequalities, discriminant
- Reciprocal functions, rational functions
- Exponential and logarithmic functions and their graphs
- Transformations of functions
Topic 3: Geometry and Trigonometry (25 hours)
- Volume and surface area of 3D solids
- Right-angled and non-right-angled trigonometry (sine rule, cosine rule, area of triangle)
- Radian measure, arc length, sector area
- Unit circle, exact values of trigonometric ratios
- Trigonometric identities, double angle identities
- Trigonometric functions and their graphs
- Solving trigonometric equations
Topic 4: Statistics and Probability (27 hours)
- Concepts of population, sample, random sample
- Discrete and continuous data, frequency distributions
- Mean, median, mode, quartiles, percentiles
- Range, interquartile range, standard deviation, variance
- Linear correlation, Pearson's product-moment correlation coefficient
- Scatter diagrams, line of best fit, regression line
- Probability concepts, Venn diagrams, tree diagrams
- Combined and conditional probability
- Discrete random variables, expected value
- Binomial distribution
- Normal distribution
Topic 5: Calculus (28 hours)
- Limits and convergence
- Derivative as gradient and rate of change
- Differentiation rules (power rule, product rule, quotient rule, chain rule)
- Derivatives of trigonometric, exponential, and logarithmic functions
- Tangent and normal lines
- Increasing/decreasing functions, local maxima and minima
- Optimization problems
- Integration as anti-differentiation
- Definite integrals, area under curves
- Kinematics problems involving displacement, velocity, and acceleration
Assessment Overview
| Component | Math AA SL | Math AI SL |
|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | No calculator 1.5 hours (80 marks) 40% | Calculator allowed 1.5 hours (80 marks) 40% |
| Paper 2 | Calculator allowed 1.5 hours (80 marks) 40% | Calculator allowed 1.5 hours (80 marks) 40% |
| Internal Assessment (IA) | Mathematical Exploration 20% | |
Note: The External Assessment (EA) is marked by IB examiners. The Internal Assessment (IA) is marked by teachers and moderated by IB.
APPLICATION AND INTERPRETATION SL (MATH AI SL)
Math AI SL is the least academically demanding among the four courses as it emphasizes fundamental concepts rather than complex manipulation skills. As such, Math AI SL is more suitable for students who do not plan to take mathematics as an essential part of their studies at university like law, psychology, languages, etc. Check out our IB Math SL/HL guide for more details.
On the other hand, students who need to take math as a significant component of their studies like engineering or sciences must take Math AA SL or HL.
According to IB, students who take Math AA "will be those who enjoy the thrill of mathematical problem solving and generalization." While students who take AI "will be those who enjoy mathematics best when seen in a practical context."
Syllabus Outline for Math AI SL
Topic 1: Numbers and Algebra (16 teaching hrs vs 19 for AA)
- Arithmetic, geometric sequence & series
- Sigma notation
- Financial applications of geometric sequences & series (compound interest, depreciation)
- Exponent laws
- Logarithms (base 10 and e)
- % error & estimation
- Technology to solve polynomial equations
Topic 2: Functions (31 teaching hrs vs 21 for AA)
- Domain & range
- Point of intersections using GDC
- Linear & Quadratic Functions
- Sinusoidal & cubic functions
- Exponential Functions
Topic 3: Geometry and Trigonometry (18 teaching hrs vs 25 for AA)
- Distance & Midpoint
- Volume, Surface Area of 3D shapes
- Sine, cosine, tangent ratios
- Sine & Cosine rule
- Circle geometry (sector area, arc length)
Topic 4: Statistics and Probability (36 teaching hrs vs 27 for AA)
- Discrete & continuous data
- Histograms & Box-and-whisker
- Mean/median/mode
- Standard Deviation, variance, interquartile range
- Pearson's product moment coefficient
- Regression line
- Probability (mutually exclusive, independent, combined, conditional)
- Binomial, normal distribution
- Inverse normal calculations
Topic 5: Calculus (19 teaching hrs vs 28 for AA)
- Limit
- Derivative as the rate of change
- Tangents & normals at a given point
- Intro to anti-differentiation
- Chain, product, quotient rules
- Max/min/inflection points
- Optimization
A quick look at this file will give you a glimpse of the differences in the subject breakdown between Math AA (SL/HL) and AI (SL/HL)
IB MATHEMATICS HIGHER LEVEL (HL)
Students who anticipate mathematics as a major component of their university studies should take Math HL. IB recommends it if you are aiming for math, engineering and physics majors. Learn more about IB and college admission.
Students can choose to take 2 distinct courses under Math HL: Math AA HL and Math AI HL.
IB MATHEMATICS ANALYSIS AND APPROACHES (MATH AA HL)
Math AA HL is similar to the old Math HL curriculum and is generally recommended for students who are strongest at math and are interested in studying courses that are math-intensive after high school (for example, engineering, computer science, math, etc.). See our IB Math tutoring for expert support
Syllabus Outline for Math AA HL
Below are the topics that HL students must learn in addition to the SL topics (see the section under 'Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches (Math AA SL)' above for the list of topics that both levels must learn).
Topic 1: Numbers and Algebra (39 teaching hrs)
- Permutations & Combinations
- Complex Numbers (real & imaginary, conjugate, modulus, argument)
- Modulus-argument (polar) form
- Euler form
- De Moivre's Theorem
- Mathematical Induction
- Proof by contradiction
Topic 2: Functions (32 teaching hours)
- Polynomial functions
- Factor & remainder theorem
- Sum & Product of roots of polynomials
- Odd & even functions
- Self-inverse functions
Topic 3: Geometry & Trigonometry (51 teaching hours)
- Reciprocal trigonometric ratios
- Compound angle identities
- Vectors (magnitude, position & displacement vector)
- Scalar product
- Parallel, intersecting, skew lines
- Vector equations of a plane
- The intersection between planes, line & plane
Topic 4: Statistics & Probability (33 teaching hrs)
- Bayes' theorem
- Variance of discrete random variable
- Continuous random variable
Topic 5: Calculus (55 teaching hrs)
- Continuity & differentiability at a point
- Derivatives from first principles
- Higher derivatives
- L'Hôpital's rule & Maclaurin series
- Implicit differentiation
- Related rates of change
- Partial fractions
- Integration by substitution & parts
- Area between curves
- Volumes of revolution about x-axis / y-axis
- Euler's method
Assessment Outline for Math AA HL and Math AI HL
| Assessment | Format of Assessment | Time (hr) | Weight (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| External Assessment (EA) | |||
| Paper 1 (No Calculator) | Two Sections of Short & Extended Response Questions | 2 | 30 |
| Paper 2 (GDC Required) | Two Sections of Short & Extended Response Questions | 2 | 30 |
| Paper 3 (GDC Required) | Extended Response Questions from Options Course | 1 | 20 |
| Internal Assessment (IA) | |||
| Project | A Personal and Practical Project That Might involve "Collection of Information or Generation of Measurements" Followed by Analysis and Evaluation. IA is assessed by the teacher and moderated by IB. | - | 20 |
Note: The external assessments (paper 1, 2 and 3) are marked by examiners appointed by IBO, while the internal assessment (mathematical exploration) is assessed by the teacher, then some are moderated by IBO.
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HLIB Mathematics Applications and Interpretation (Math AI HL)
Math AI HL is an entirely new addition and is unlike any of the old courses. Topics focus on the application of Mathematics to real life problems. Emphasis is placed on Probability and Statistics which is a direct pathway to Data Science, Business, and Analytics. Students who pursue Health Sciences could also find this course a good fit. While this course does have calculus, it is less rigorous than Math AA HL. All students who take AI HL use their own GDC which plays an important role in all assessments and exams. While AI HL is less rigorous mathematically, students should carefully consider their career pathway before choosing AI HL. Compare current Math AI HL transfer credit policies before committing to a university plan.
Syllabus Outline:
Topic 1Numbers and Algebra (29 hours)
- • Scientific notation, arithmetic and geometric sequences and series
- • Financial applications of geometric sequences: compound interest and annual depreciation
- • Laws of logarithms and exponents, numerical solutions to equations
- • Use of technology to solve systems of linear equations and polynomial equations
- • Complex numbers and their applications to polynomial equations
- • Matrices: arithmetic, inverse, determinants, eigenvalues
- • Representing systems of equations in matrix form and solving using inverse matrix
- • Modelling real-life situations: loans, repayments, annuities, amortization
Topic 2Functions (42 hours)
- • Functions, notation, domain and range, inverse and composite functions
- • Graphing and solving linear, quadratic, and polynomial functions
- • Logarithmic and exponential functions and their applications
- • Logistic models, piecewise models
- • Linearizing data and graph transformations
- • Using sinusoidal models for real world applications
- • Voronoi diagrams in context (nearest neighbour interpolation, toxic waste dump problem)
Topic 3Geometry and Trigonometry (46 hours)
- • 3D surface area and volume, angles of elevation and depression
- • Trigonometry with non-right triangles (Sine, Cosine rule)
- • Navigation using Bearings, horizontal projections
- • Unit circle: radian measure, arc length and sector area, exact trig ratios
- • 3D geometry, angles between planes and angles between a line and a plane
- • Vectors in 3D, scalar product and its applications, vector equations of a line
- • Graph theory: Graphs, vertices, edges, adjacent and weighted graphs
- • Adjacency matrices, walks, Hamiltonian and Eulerian trails and circuits
- • Trees and graphs using Prim's, Kruskal's, Dijkstra's, Chinese postman algorithms
Topic 4Statistics and Probability (52 hours)
- • Collecting and classifying data, presenting data in tables, graphs, box plots
- • Measures of central tendency and dispersion, effect of constant changes
- • Correlation, causation, and association
- • Regression (Linear, Quadratic, Cubic, Exponential, Power)
- • Probability definitions, combined events, Venn diagrams, conditional probability
- • Probability distributions, expected outcomes
- • Discrete variables: Binomial, Poisson, Continuous variables: Normal
- • Reliability and validity tests, significance and hypothesis testing
- • Chi squared test for independence, Goodness of fit test, t-tests
- • Transition matrices, regular Markov chains, modelling with Markov chains
Topic 5Calculus (41 hours)
- • Limits, continuity, convergence
- • Differentiation and its applications including optimization, kinematics
- • Integration and its applications including kinematics, volume of revolution
- • Differential equations: slope fields, separation of variables, Euler's method
- • Coupled differential equations: second order differential equations, modelling
In general, students should consider their interest and skill in mathematics as well as their career pathways when choosing which courses to take. The best advice is to speak to your teachers and counsellors about the best fit for you!
💡Tips for Students Doing Any Level of IB Math
1
Know your formula booklet! Understand the formulae in your formula booklet very well and also study them when preparing for exams (they are available online for all to download)
2
Learn to use the GDC efficiently. A graphing calculator makes short work of complex math problems. Learn all the shortcuts and functionalities as they will save you time on the exam.
3
Past papers are your best friends when it comes to preparing for IB Math exams. Past Paper questions are the best way to practice and prepare for tests.
4
Don't fall behind. When you fall behind in Math, it is extremely difficult to catch up, more so than any other subject. Math builds on itself, so if you fall behind, seek help immediately, preferably from a tutor.
5
Watch videos on different topics in your course to build a strong understanding.
6
Use a textbook or revision guide for practice problems. If you ever need more problems to practice, textbooks provide ample opportunity for practice.
7
When studying, be active, not passive. Solve problems as you learn topics, check your solutions and learn from your mistakes.
8
Take some time to understand the marking criteria for the Math IA so you can understand your goals before writing it.
9
Ask for help. If you are struggling with a topic, don't be afraid to ask for help. Your teacher or tutor is there to help you succeed.
Learn More About Our Services & Resources
Written by Masoud (MSc, MASc, BEd) and edited by Marzi and Uko—all experienced IB Math tutors at Hack Your Course with Master's degrees in Mathematics from leading universities.
Common Questions About IB Math (AA vs. AI)
Choosing the Right Track: AA vs. AI
Requirements vary by university, program, campus, and admission year. Quantitative Engineering and Computer Science programs may expect strong calculus preparation, but do not assume one IB route is universally required. Check the official requirements for every program you may apply to and ask its admissions office when the wording is unclear.
It varies by university, undergraduate program, campus, and admission year. Check each program's official admissions requirements before choosing, and ask admissions directly if it does not name the accepted IB Mathematics course and level.
Math AI SL is the closest current course in emphasis to the former Math Studies course, but it is not a direct replacement. It focuses on practical applications, technology, modelling, and statistics. Course acceptance still depends on the specific university program and admission year.
Your school's timetable, deadlines, and IB coordinator determine whether a switch is possible. Ask as early as you can because the courses diverge in content and assessment. Recheck your intended university programs before changing either the course or level.
Exams & Assessment Structure
Paper 3 is an exclusive exam for Higher Level (HL) students only (both AA and AI). It is a 1-hour "investigative" paper containing two extended problem-solving questions that test your ability to apply math to unfamiliar contexts. See our IB exam prep tips.
The IA (Exploration) is worth 20% of your final grade for both SL and HL tracks. It is a 12-20 page written paper exploring a mathematical topic of your choice. Check out our Math IA ideas for inspiration.
Yes. Students receive the official IB Formula Booklet for all papers. However, Math AA students must memorize certain standard values (unit circle) for the non-calculator Paper 1. Our IB Math exam workshop covers this in detail.
Paper 1: Short and long response questions. For AA, it tests mental math and algebraic manipulation. Paper 2: Requires the Graphic Display Calculator (GDC). Questions are often more complex and require graphing or statistical computation. See the IB grading guidelines.
Syllabus & Topic Breakdown
Yes. Math AI SL covers basic differentiation and integration (19 hours). Math AI HL covers significantly more (41 hours), including related rates and differential equations, but focuses on application rather than abstract derivation. See our calculus tutoring.
Math AI (Applications & Interpretation) places more emphasis on statistics, modelling, interpretation, and technology. Use the official subject brief to compare the precise SL or HL content rather than choosing solely from a future degree label.
In the new curriculum, Vectors are primarily found in Math AA HL and Math AI HL. They have been largely removed from the SL syllabus, except for basic geometry contexts.
Standard Level (SL): 150 hours. Higher Level (HL): 240 hours. This massive difference is why HL covers topics like Complex Numbers and Induction in much greater depth. See our IB Math SL/HL guide.
Both AA and AI share a common "Core" of 60 hours of content (basic functions, trig, stats). The divergence happens in how these topics are extended. This ensures all IB math graduates have a baseline of numeracy.
How HYC Helps You Survive IB Math
Our tutors can help students practise calculator workflows used for graphing, statistics, probability, and numerical problem-solving. Confirm your calculator model and course level when requesting a tutor so the practice matches your class.
Yes. Paper 3 is often the scariest part for HL students. We provide practice "investigation" questions that teach you how to break down the problem step-by-step, mimicking the "scaffolding" used in real exams. Contact us to learn more.
We help you move from a generic topic to a high-scoring mathematical inquiry. We review the math to ensure it meets the "commensurate with the course" criteria. See our Math IA guide and topic ideas.
Start early. The new curriculum moves fast. Building a strong foundation in "Functions" and "Algebra" in the first 3 months makes the harder Calculus units in Year 2 much more manageable. Check our IB Math tutoring.
Students assessed before May 2029 should use the current AA and AI syllabus. Updated courses begin teaching in August 2027 and have their first assessment in May 2029. Confirm your assessment session with your school, then use the matching official IB subject guide. The sourced notice above links both update pages.