IB DP Mathematics AA vs AI (SL/HL): How to Choose the Right Course in 2025
Last updated: 10 September 2025 (Singapore).
If your child is in an IP/IB school around Bukit Timah, you’ll eventually need to pick one IB Diploma mathematics course: Mathematics: Analysis & Approaches (AA) or Mathematics: Applications & Interpretation (AI), at SL or HL. This guide lays out what each course covers, the assessment model, calculator/technology rules, hours, and how different universities view AA/AI—so you can choose confidently. Key facts link to official IB and university pages.
What AA and AI actually are
- AA (Analysis & Approaches) emphasises algebraic manipulation, proof, functions, and calculus taught in a coherent, rigorous way. It develops the ability to construct and justify mathematical arguments. Recommended hours: 150 (SL) / 240 (HL). Assessment includes an internal exploration (IA) worth 20% and written exams worth 80%. Paper 1 (AA) is no technology; Paper 2/3 allow technology (HL adds Paper 3).
- AI (Applications & Interpretation) emphasises modelling, statistics/data, technology use, and real-world contexts. It also includes calculus, but with stronger focus on applied skills and interpretation. Hours: 150 (SL) / 240 (HL). IA 20%, exams 80%. All AI papers allow technology; HL also has Paper 3.
You can only take one mathematics course in the IB Diploma. (International Baccalaureate®)
“AA or AI?” — A Mother–Daughter Story About Choosing IB DP Mathematics in 2025
Saturday, 4:10 p.m., Bukit Timah.
Mei sets a pot of barley tea on the table. Her daughter, Jia, drops her school bag and opens her laptop.
“Mum, they want my IB Math choice next week,” Jia says. “AA or AI, SL or HL. I don’t want to pick wrong.”
“Let’s read the official pages together,” Mei replies, shifting the tea coasters onto a notepad labelled Math Plans.
They start with the IB’s own subject briefs—short, authoritative overviews. One tab for AA (Analysis & Approaches), another for AI (Applications & Interpretation). The pages spell it out: AA leans into algebra, functions, proof and calculus; AI leans into modelling, statistics, and technology-rich problem solving. Both courses run 150 hours (SL) or 240 hours (HL) and include an Internal Assessment (IA) worth 20%. In AA, Paper 1 is no-calculator; Paper 2 (and HL Paper 3) allow technology. In AI, all papers allow technology. Jia reads aloud and nods. (International Baccalaureate®)
“Before we get lost in rumours,” Mei says, “let’s also check the IB calculator policy so we know what’s actually allowed.” They open the IB’s calculator page and a reference document that outlines permitted models and rules. Technology is required in parts of DP mathematics, but not every tool is permitted in exam conditions—the school will confirm the exact models. Jia highlights the link into her notes. (International Baccalaureate®)
Scene 1: What does Jia enjoy—and where is she headed?
Jia pulls up a folder of past tests. “I like algebraic puzzles and proofs,” she says, “but I also love data stories in science projects.”
Mei draws a quick decision grid:
- If a student enjoys symbolic manipulation and proof and wants math-intensive degrees (Maths, Engineering, Physical Sciences, CS), **AA—often HL—**is the safest preparation.
- If a student thrives with modelling, data and interpretation and aims for social sciences, business, design, or life sciences (where universities accept AI), AI (SL/HL) may fit better.
They decide to sanity-check this “rule of thumb” against real university pages.
Example 1 — LSE (Maths + quantitative degrees).
On LSE’s site, Jia finds a clear line: many quantitative degrees require “Mathematics: Analysis & Approaches (HL)” for IB applicants. That feels unambiguous. (lse.ac.uk)
Example 2 — Imperial College London (Engineering).
Imperial’s engineering page reassures her: HL AA or HL AI are accepted, but AA is preferred for some departments (Mechanical Engineering explicitly says so). That means AI HL can be fine, but AA HL signals stronger pure-math readiness. (Imperial College London)
Example 3 — University of Cambridge (Mathematics).
The Cambridge Mathematics page lists IB 40–42 with 776 at Higher Level including 7 in HL Mathematics (AA) plus STEP—about as “AA-leaning” as it gets for a pure-math degree. Jia underlines the word “AA” and circles STEP twice. (maths.cam.ac.uk)
Local context — National University of Singapore (NUS).
They open NUS’s programme-prerequisite summary for IB applicants. It shows programme-specific math expectations and where MAA/MAI (AA/AI) at SL/HL meet requirements—proof that policy depends on the course. “So for Singapore options, we must check each faculty,” Mei notes. (NUS)
“I’m not committing to Cambridge Maths,” Jia laughs, “but it’s clear: AA HL keeps more STEM doors open. If I go data-heavy later, AA doesn’t block me.”
Scene 2: What will daily learning feel like?
They scroll back to the IB briefs and list what a week might look like.
- AA: more time on algebraic methods, functions, trigonometry, calculus, proof; regular practice without a calculator for Paper 1; then technology to verify, model, and check in Paper 2/3.
- AI: sustained technology-enabled work—data analysis, modelling, regression, simulations—across all papers; conceptual calculus is there, but statistics/applications weigh more.
- Both: an IA (20%)—a mathematical exploration where students design, analyse, and communicate clearly.
It’s not about “hard vs easy”—they cultivate different habits. (International Baccalaureate®)
“I like the discipline of no-calc papers,” Jia says. “If AA SL feels too light and I’m coping, we could ask about HL in the first term.”
Mei makes a note to check school timetables and teacher advice, and to confirm permitted calculators with the IB coordinator. (International Baccalaureate®)
Scene 3: Try before you decide—mini “fit test”
They stage a home trial:
- AA-style set (30 min, no calculator): exact trig values, algebraic manipulation, function transformations, a short proof.
- AI-style set (30–40 min, with technology): analysing a small data set, regression, interpreting parameters, modelling a trend, communication of assumptions.
Jia enjoys both, but her eyes light up during the proof step. “This is the kind of thinking I want,” she says.
“Then the paper mechanics matter,” Mei replies. “AA Paper 1 is non-tech by design; AI uses technology in all external papers. If you like proving and exact values, that leans AA.” (International Baccalaureate®)
Scene 4: Check the long-term map, not just Year 5–6
They chart possibilities:
- If Jia aims for Engineering/CS overseas → AA HL matches expectations at many selective programmes; some accept AI HL but prefer AA HL. (They bookmark LSE and Imperial pages.) (lse.ac.uk, Imperial College London)
- If she pivots to Economics/Data Science → many courses accept AA SL/HL or AI HL; requirements vary—confirm on the actual course page. (They keep the NUS prerequisites PDF handy for local checks.) (NUS)
- If she ever targets pure Mathematics → AA HL + extra problem-solving (e.g., STEP for Cambridge Maths). (maths.cam.ac.uk)
“Either way,” Mei says, “we’ll re-read requirements every year. Universities update policy pages; we trust official sites over forums.”
Scene 5: The choice
It’s dark outside now. The tea is gone. Jia closes the last tab.
“Given my strengths and the doors I want open,” Jia says, “I’ll pick Mathematics: Analysis & Approaches — HL.”
Mei smiles. “Let’s email your coordinator to double-check the calculator model and HL timetable.” (International Baccalaureate®)
They add one more sticky note: “IA ideas: optimisation from physics lab · modelling learning curves · proof of a trig identity with geometric interpretation.” The decision feels less like a fork in the road, more like a map with signposts.
What readers can copy from Mei & Jia’s approach
- Start with primary sources. Read the IB AA/AI briefs to understand hours, assessment split, and technology rules (AA P1 no-tech; AI all papers with tech). (International Baccalaureate®)
- Check actual programme pages. If a course requires AA HL (e.g., LSE quantitative degrees) or prefers AA HL (e.g., some Imperial Engineering), plan accordingly. For local courses, check NUS programme prerequisites. (lse.ac.uk, Imperial College London, NUS)
- Match to the student’s habits. Love manipulation/proof? AA (consider HL for STEM-heavy aims). Love modelling/data? AI (choose HL where quantitative depth is expected). (International Baccalaureate®)
- Confirm exam tools early. Read the IB calculator policy and your school’s guidance before buying a calculator or relying on features not permitted in exams. (International Baccalaureate®)
Sources (official & high-trust)
- IB: DP Mathematics overview & subject briefs (AA/AI) · AA brief (PDF) · AI brief (PDF) · Exam calculator policy and Calculator list (reference). (International Baccalaureate®)
- University examples (always check the exact course page):
- Cambridge Mathematics — HL AA + STEP noted on departmental admissions page. (maths.cam.ac.uk)
- LSE quantitative degrees — HL AA required. (lse.ac.uk)
- Imperial Engineering — HL AA or HL AI accepted, AA preferred in some departments. (Imperial College London)
- NUS — Programme prerequisites for IB Diploma applicants (where MAA/MAI acceptance is programme-specific). (NUS)
Assessment at a glance (official)
| Course | Paper | Time | Tech | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AA SL | Paper 1 | 1 h 30 m | No tech | 40% |
| Paper 2 | 1 h 30 m | Tech allowed | 40% | |
| IA (Exploration) | — | Tech allowed | 20% | |
| AA HL | Paper 1 | 2 h | No tech | 30% |
| Paper 2 | 2 h | Tech allowed | 30% | |
| Paper 3 | 1 h | Tech allowed | 20% | |
| IA | — | Tech allowed | 20% | |
| AI SL | Paper 1 | 1 h 30 m | Tech allowed | 40% |
| Paper 2 | 1 h 30 m | Tech allowed | 40% | |
| IA | — | Tech allowed | 20% | |
| AI HL | Paper 1 | 2 h | Tech allowed | 30% |
| Paper 2 | 2 h | Tech allowed | 30% | |
| Paper 3 | 1 h | Tech allowed | 20% | |
| IA | — | Tech allowed | 20% |
(From the IB subject briefs for AA and AI.)
Calculator/technology policy (DP-wide): the IB publishes permitted calculator guidance and technology expectations for exams; details are on the Exam calculator policy page. Always confirm with your school’s IB coordinator. (International Baccalaureate®)
Content emphasis & teaching hours
Both courses share core strands (Number & Algebra; Functions; Geometry & Trigonometry; Statistics & Probability; Calculus) but weight them differently. Each course recommends 150 hours (SL) and 240 hours (HL) and includes 15 hours for the IA.
- AA: more time on algebra, functions, trigonometry and calculus; strong on structure and proof.
- AI: more time on functions with technology, statistics & modelling, and interpretation. All external assessments are technology-enabled.
Which course for which student?
Choose AA (usually HL) if the student:
- enjoys symbolic manipulation and abstract reasoning;
- targets math-intensive degrees (Mathematics, Engineering, Physical Sciences, Computer Science) where universities often expect or prefer AA HL. For example, Cambridge Mathematics lists HL Mathematics (Analysis & Approaches) in typical offers; some colleges explicitly advise AA for Science/Maths/Economics. (maths.cam.ac.uk, caths.cam.ac.uk)
Choose AI (SL or HL) if the student:
- prefers modelling, data, statistics, and applied problem-solving with technology;
- targets social sciences, business, life sciences, design or mixed STEM-plus-business courses, where AI HL is often acceptable (but check each university). Some engineering programmes (e.g., Imperial Mech. Eng.) accept AA or AI HL, while noting AA is preferred. (Imperial College London)
Always verify degree-specific requirements. Examples:
• LSE’s quantitative programmes (e.g., BSc Mathematics & Economics) require Mathematics: Analysis & Approaches (HL). (lse.ac.uk)
• Some courses at Imperial indicate acceptance of AA or AI HL (with AA preferred for certain engineering degrees). (Imperial College London)
• NUS programme prerequisites show where MAA/MAI at SL/HL are acceptable for local courses (see NUS prerequisites summary). (NUS)
AA vs AI: side-by-side (practical view)
| Dimension | AA | AI |
|---|---|---|
| Core identity | Theoretical/analytical mathematics; proof & structure. | Applied mathematics; modelling, statistics, technology. |
| Technology in exams | P1 no tech, P2 (+HL P3) with tech. | All papers use tech (SL & HL). |
| Typical “fit” | Students aiming for STEM-heavy degrees; strong algebraic habits. | Students who like data/contexts, modelling, and interpretation. |
| University signalling | Widely seen as the stronger prep for math-intensive courses; many top programmes prefer/expect AA HL. (maths.cam.ac.uk, lse.ac.uk) | Often accepted for applied or mixed pathways; some engineering programmes accept AI HL but may prefer AA. (Imperial College London) |
How the Internal Assessment (IA) works (both AA & AI)
- What it is: a mathematical exploration (student-chosen topic) demonstrating application, reasoning, and communication.
- Weight/time: 20% of the final grade; about 15 hours teaching time allocated.
- Good picks: topics that naturally invite modelling/analysis (AI) or derivation/proof and deeper connections (AA), with appropriate use of technology where relevant.
Decision flow for families (quick and honest)
- Map future options: shortlist 3–5 target courses (local and overseas). Check math course requirements (AA vs AI, SL vs HL). Use university pages, not forums. Start with programme pages at the universities themselves (examples linked above). (lse.ac.uk, maths.cam.ac.uk, Imperial College London)
- Audit current strengths: if algebraic manipulation and proof-style questions are a clear strength → AA (consider HL if aiming STEM-heavy). If the student thrives in applied contexts and data interpretation → AI (choose HL if quantitative rigor is needed for targeted degrees).
- Check school offering/timetable: some schools’ timetables make one path more practical; confirm technology expectations and calculator models with your IB coordinator. (International Baccalaureate®)
- Avoid mismatches: if a target degree requires AA HL, do not risk AI HL. Conversely, if the student’s intended field and universities accept AI HL, it can be a better motivational fit. (See LSE and Imperial examples above.) (lse.ac.uk, Imperial College London)
Paper mechanics (what students should actually practise)
- AA exam habits: practising non-calculator techniques for Paper 1 (algebraic manipulation, exact trig values, proofs), then transitioning to technology-enabled methods for Paper 2/3 (root finding, numerical methods, graph/fit checks).
- AI exam habits: heavy, consistent use of technology—from data analysis and regression to function plotting and solving—in both papers; ensure your calculator or software is IB-compliant and you know its features cold.
Typical degree targets (illustrative—not exhaustive)
- AA HL: Mathematics, Physics, Engineering, Computer Science, Econometrics—often required/preferred by selective UK courses (see Cambridge/LSE examples). (maths.cam.ac.uk, lse.ac.uk)
- AA SL / AI HL: Economics/Business (varies by school), Information Systems, Life Sciences, Architecture/Design—check programme prerequisites: e.g., NUS documents indicate where MAA/MAI combinations are acceptable. (NUS)
- AI SL: Suitable when degrees don’t specify advanced mathematics—still confirm each university’s maths expectations. (Policies evolve; always read the latest programme page.) (International Baccalaureate®)
Quick FAQ
Is AI “easier” than AA?
Different, not simply easier. AI demands strong technology-led modelling and statistics; AA demands stronger algebraic manipulation and proof. The right choice depends on strengths and degree plans.
Can I switch later?
Some schools allow a switch early in the course if timetabling permits, but it becomes difficult once assessments and IA planning start. Confirm with your IB coordinator. (Policy details vary by school; check locally and with IB guidance pages.) (International Baccalaureate®)
What calculator do we need?
IB maintains an exam calculator policy; models and functionality guidance are published by the IB. Always verify with your school before buying. (International Baccalaureate®)
Official sources (bookmark)
- IB DP Mathematics overview (AA & AI; first assessment May 2021; course list and context). (International Baccalaureate®)
- IB Subject briefs: AA and AI (assessment model, hours, tech policy per paper, IA weighting).
- IB Exam calculator policy (DP). (International Baccalaureate®)
- University examples (always check your target programme):
- Cambridge Mathematics (requires HL Mathematics: AA + STEP). (maths.cam.ac.uk)
- LSE quantitative degrees (require Mathematics: AA (HL)). (lse.ac.uk)
- Imperial (Engineering) (accepts AA or AI HL, AA preferred in some departments). (Imperial College London)
- NUS programme prerequisites (where MAA/MAI are acceptable). (NUS)
Bottom line
- Pick AA if the destination is math-intensive and the student is comfortable with algebraic rigour—AA HL is the safest bet for selective STEM.
- Pick AI if the student excels with data, modelling and technology, and target courses accept AI (use AI HL where quantitative demands are higher).
- In all cases, verify current requirements on the actual programme pages for the universities you care about. Policies are updated, and “rules of thumb” can mislead. (International Baccalaureate®)
For our latest Math Tutorials
Bukit Timah Tutor Secondary Mathematics 