What is the recommended topic order for IB DP Mathematics AA & AI?

The official IB DP Mathematics syllabus follows 5 standard topics: Topic 1: Number and Algebra, Topic 2: Functions, Topic 3: Geometry and Trigonometry, Topic 4: Statistics and Probability, and Topic 5: Calculus. Schools typically teach algebra and functions first to build foundational skills before advancing to trigonometry, probability distributions, and calculus.

What are the two IB DP Mathematics courses?

IB DP Mathematics offers two courses: Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches (AA), which emphasises mathematical rigour, proofs, and abstraction, and Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation (AI), which emphasises practical applications, modelling, and the use of technology.

What is the difference between SL and HL in IB DP Mathematics?

Standard Level (SL) is designed to build a sound mathematical foundation, while Higher Level (HL) covers additional topics with greater depth and complexity. HL includes all SL content plus approximately 90 additional teaching hours of content.

Should I choose Math AA or Math AI?

Math AA is recommended for students planning to study mathematics-heavy subjects like pure mathematics, physics, or engineering. Math AI is better suited for students interested in social sciences, business, biology, or design, where applied mathematics and statistics are more central. See our AA vs AI comparison page for a full breakdown.

IB DP Mathematics: Syllabus, Topic Order & AA vs AI (SL & HL)

Step 1: Choose Your Course

DP Mathematics Courses

Two courses, each at SL and HL. Pick yours below.

AA SL

Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches SL

~150 Teaching Hours (Standard Level)

Emphasis on algebra, proof, and calculus.

Number & Algebra
Functions
Geometry & Trigonometry
Statistics & Probability
Calculus

Go to AA SL

AA HL

Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches HL

~240 Teaching Hours (Higher Level)

All SL content plus complex numbers, proof by induction, vectors, and further calculus.

All AA SL topics
Complex Numbers & Proof
Further Calculus (HL extension)
Further Statistics (HL extension)

Go to AA HL

AI SL

Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation SL

~150 Teaching Hours (Standard Level)

Emphasis on modelling, statistics, and technology.

Number & Algebra
Functions & Modelling
Geometry & Trigonometry
Statistics & Probability
Calculus

Go to AI SL

AI HL

Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation HL

~240 Teaching Hours (Higher Level)

All SL content plus deeper statistics, modelling, and graph theory.

All AI SL topics
Further Statistics (HL extension)
Graph Theory & Networks (HL extension)
Further Calculus (HL extension)

Go to AI HL

Step 2: Course Guidance

Math AA vs Math AI: Which Should You Choose?

Different emphases, different exams. Here's how they compare.

Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches (AA)

Focuses on rigour, proof, and algebra. Mathematics as its own discipline.

Best suited for:

Mathematics, physics, engineering
Computer science, data science
Students who enjoy abstract reasoning

Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation (AI)

Focuses on real-world applications, modelling, and technology use.

Best suited for:

Social sciences, economics, biology
Business, design, psychology
Students who prefer applied contexts

Step 3: Core Syllabus

DP Mathematics Topics

Both AA and AI share five topic areas, but the content and weighting differ.

Geometry & Trigonometry

T4

Statistics & Probability

T5

Calculus

Topic-wise notes and practice are organised on each course page below — explore the five topics on your course page →

Step 4: Exam & Study Resources

Exam Preparation & Course Hubs

Explore the AA SL & HL topic guides, the Internal Assessment (IA) guide, and IB command-terms reference.

Math AA SL Topics & ResourcesAll five topics at Standard Level for AA Math AA HL Topics & ResourcesAll five topics plus HL extensions for AA Math AI SL Topics & ResourcesAll five topics at Standard Level for AI Math AI HL Topics & ResourcesAll five topics plus HL extensions for AI Internal Assessment (IA) GuideCriteria A–E, topic ideas, and score calculator IB Command TermsUnderstand what each command term requires in exam papers

Curriculum Overview

IB Mathematics at a Glance

Course Options

AA or AI

Levels Offered

SL (~150 hrs) | HL (~240 hrs)

Programme Duration

2 Years (Full DP)

Assessment Structure

External Exams + Internal Assessment (IA)

IB Diploma Programme Mathematics is studied over two years. Each course is assessed through external examination papers and one internal assessment — the Mathematical Exploration (IA), an individual investigation assessed against IB criteria.

These AA SL guides follow the syllabus first assessed in 2021 (final assessment: November 2028). For the 2029 course or exam requirements, check the official subject guide and formula booklet.

Check the official IB Mathematics syllabus and transition dates.

IB DP Mathematics