In the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma students have the option to study Chemistry at a higher level (HL) or standard level (SL). The key difference between these two levels is the breadth and depth of the material covered during the course.

Higher Level (HL) (240 teaching hours)

HL Chemistry covers the same core material as SL Chemistry as well as additional topics which allow students to explore certain subjects in greater depth. In addition to theoretical content HL students perform 40 hours of practical work.

HL Chemistry requires students to be able to take qualitative concepts and apply quantitive techniques on them. For example, taking the concepts of the pH scale and acids and basis further to performming calculations associated with acids and basis.

Thus, HL Chemistry requires students to have a strong understanding of the concepts taught as well as to think analytically and be able to apply the content to different contexts. 

Standard Level (SL) (150 teaching hours)

SL Chemistry covers the same core subjects at a slightly less challenging level compared to HL chemistry. This provides students with an insight to a range of key topics in chemistry. In addition to theoretical content SL students complete 20 hours of practical work.

In SL chemistry students learn chemistry at a more qualitative than quantitative level compared to HL chemistry. Thus, SL chemistry is aimed at students who strive to obtain a well rounded education but who do not aspire to specialize in chemistry in their future career.

In general, HL Chemistry is more time consuming and challenging than SL Chemistry as it requires students to have a strong understanding in a wider range of materials and to be able to apply it to different situations.

Therefore, HL Chemistry is designed for students who have a strong interest in chemistry. It is vital that students carefully consider their interests and strenghts, potential future endeavours and goals before deciding at which level to pursue Chemistry.