IB Physics: A Complete Guide (2025)

IB Physics is a rigorous course in the IBDP, covering topics from mechanics and thermodynamics to modern physics and astrophysics. It demands dedication, problem-solving, and critical thinking but rewards students with a deep understanding of the universe and valuable analytical skills. This guide explores why you should study IB Physics, what the course entails, tips for excelling, and the career opportunities it unlocks. If you're passionate about physics and ready for a challenge, read on!

Why study IB Physics?

IB Physics is ideal for students interested in physics, engineering, mathematics, or related fields. The course offers:

A Strong Foundation in Physics Principles

• Deep understanding of fundamental concepts that govern the natural world.
• Application of knowledge across fields like engineering, statistics, and computational science.

Development of Transferable Skills

• Critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
• Skills useful for designing and building real-world systems in engineering.

Scientific Research and Experimental Design

• Training in research methods and experimental techniques.
• Preparation for further studies in research-intensive fields like astrophysics and quantum mechanics.

Is IB Physics hard?

With an average score of 4.9 out of 7 for HL, a pass rate hovering around 66 to 67% in May 2024, and almost 20% of HL candidates receiving a 7, IB Biology might witness a slightly better results compared to IB Chemistry and IB Biology, but it remains one of the Hardest IB Subjects.

There are three major reasons behind the subject's difficulty:

• Mathematical Rigor: IB Physics involves complex calculations and advanced mathematical concepts, including calculus at HL, which can be challenging for students.
• Conceptual Depth: The subject covers a wide range of intricate topics, from quantum physics to electromagnetism, requiring a strong grasp of theoretical principles.
• Practical Application: Students must excel in experimental work, data analysis, and applying physics concepts to real-world problems, demanding both precision and critical thinking.

One lecturer in mathematics and physics at Oxford University said the following about IB Physics:

"IB Physics is arguably the most difficult of the sciences. I've seen many capable students struggle with some of the concepts. Strong mathematical skills are necessary to to well. You learn a lot though during the course and it sets you up well for university. It can be hard work, and to get a 7 at HL is tough, but usually it is worth it."

IB Physics syllabus (2025)

The IB Physics syllabus covers a wide range of topics related to the study of physics, which are divided into two levels: Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL). The 2025 IB Physics syllabus introduces key updates that enhance the depth and breadth of the course content while continuing to develop critical scientific inquiry skills.

Summary of topics

Here's a summary of the topics covered under the new syllabus:

Assessment Updates

The external assessment now features redesigned questions incorporating real-world applications of physics, enhancing the relevance of the subject.

Meanwhile, the Internal Assessment (IA) has also been updated:

• SL: Weightage increased to 25%, reflecting a stronger focus on inquiry and hands-on learning.
• HL: In-depth practical investigation, now accounting for 20% of the final grade, with expanded requirements for data analysis and written reporting.

Key Features of the Updated Syllabus

• Stronger integration of sustainability and real-world applications, particularly in energy-related topics.
• Expanded emphasis on interdisciplinary connections, bridging physics with engineering, environmental science, and technology.
• Greater alignment with university-level expectations in physics, mathematics, and engineering disciplines.
• Enhanced focus on critical thinking and scientific inquiry skills through practical work and theoretical applications.

The updated syllabus ensures students gain a comprehensive understanding of physics while equipping them with transferable skills for university studies and careers in science, engineering, and technology.

Have a look at our comprehensive set of IB Physics 2025 SL and IB Physics 2025 HL Resources, developed by expert IB teachers and examiners:

📚 View IB Physics 2025 SL Practice Questions
📚 View IB Physics 2025 HL Practice Questions
📚 View IB Physics 2025 SL Study Notes
📚 View IB Physics 2025 HL Study Notes
📚 View IB Physics 2025 SL Past Papers
📚 View IB Physics 2025 HL Past Papers

IB Physics vs A-Level Physics

Both IB Physics and A-Level Physics offer students rigorous foundations in physics, but they cater to different learning styles and priorities. Below is an updated comparison of these two qualifications, reflecting the 2025 syllabus changes for IB Physics.

Comparison Table: IB Physics vs A-Level Physics

Key Differences Between IB Physics and A-Level Physics

Range of Topics

• IB Physics includes a broader curriculum with newly added topics such as Energy Production and Quantum Physics, making it ideal for students seeking interdisciplinary applications in engineering, sustainability, and cutting-edge technologies.
• A-Level Physics focuses on core principles such as mechanics, waves, and electricity but delves deeper into mathematical modelling and problem-solving.

Assessment Methods

• In IB Physics, 20-25% of the final grade comes from Internal Assessments (IAs), which involve designing and conducting experiments, analyzing data, and preparing scientific reports.
• A-Level Physics students are assessed purely through external exams, with practical skills endorsed separately but not included in the final grade.

Focus on Skills Development

• The updated IB Physics syllabus emphasizes scientific inquiry, including experimental design, critical thinking, and real-world applications.
• A-Level Physics leans more heavily on mathematical problem-solving, making it a strong fit for students pursuing pure physics or engineering.

Optional Modules

• IB Physics offers optional topics such as Astrophysics, Medical Physics, and Relativity, allowing students to tailor their learning to personal interests and future goals.
• A-Level Physics does not include optional modules; the curriculum is standardized for all students.

Which One Should You Choose?

Choose IB Physics if you:

• Prefer a broader curriculum with connections to real-world applications.
• Enjoy hands-on experiments and interdisciplinary studies.
• Want to develop strong research and critical thinking skills.

Choose A-Level Physics if you:

• Prefer in-depth study of core topics with a strong focus on mathematics.
• Are aiming for a career in physics, engineering, or mathematics.
• Thrive in structured learning environments with minimal coursework.

Whichever curriculum you end up taking, however, you don't need to worry because help is always available in the form of IB Physics tutors and A-Level Physics tutors. For a more comprehensive analysis on IB vs. A-Levels, read our separate article.

Choosing the Right Level of IB Physics: SL or HL

Selecting between Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL) Physics depends on your interest in physics, academic strengths, and future career goals. Here’s what you need to know about each level to make an informed decision:

Recommendations for Choosing SL or HL Physics

Future Academic and Career Plans:

• If you aim to study physics, engineering, or any STEM-related subject at university, HL Physics is highly recommended. For example:
  • Imperial College London requires a 6 or 7 in HL Physics.
  • Oxford University expects a 7 in HL Physics or Maths for physics-related degrees.
• If physics isn’t central to your plans, SL Physics provides adequate preparation without the additional workload.

Interest and Aptitude:

• Choose HL Physics if you have a strong passion for physics, enjoy problem-solving, and are confident in mathematics.
• Choose SL Physics if you want a balanced workload or if physics is a supporting subject rather than a focus.

University Requirements:

• Always check the specific physics or STEM requirements for your target universities. Some institutions may require HL Physics for admission into competitive courses.

Both levels offer excellent learning experiences, but HL Physics is suited for ambitious students aiming for STEM careers, while SL Physics is ideal for those wanting to complement other academic interests. Consider your goals and strengths to choose the right fit!

Number of IB Physics SL & HL candidates and mean grades in 2024

IB Physics Grading System Explained (2025)

IB Physics is graded on a scale from 1 to 7, with 7 representing the highest level of achievement. The grading system is based on both external assessments and an internal assessment, each contributing to the final score.

External Assessments

• Three Exam Papers:
  • Paper 1: Multiple-choice questions on core topics.
  • Paper 2: Short-answer and extended-response questions on the core syllabus.
  • Paper 3: Questions on the chosen optional topic and experimental skills.
• These exams evaluate students' understanding of core concepts, their ability to apply knowledge in various contexts, and their problem-solving skills.

Internal Assessment (IA)

• The IA is a student-led investigation that accounts for 20% of the final grade.
• Students are required to design, execute, and report on a practical experiment, showcasing their scientific inquiry and analytical skills.
• Schools assess the IA, and the results are moderated externally by the IB.

Final Score Calculation

• The total possible score for the course is 98 points, combining external and internal assessments.
• A minimum score of 24 points is required to pass, emphasizing a balance between theoretical understanding and practical application.

This grading approach ensures that students develop both conceptual mastery and hands-on scientific expertise.

IB Physics exam format (2025)

The IB Physics exam consists of three papers and an internal assessment, designed to evaluate a student's knowledge, application skills, and experimental expertise. The total exam duration is 4 hours and 15 minutes, with assessments taking place at the end of the two-year course.

Paper 1: Multiple-Choice

• Content: 30 multiple-choice questions covering core topics.
• Duration: 45 minutes.
• Weight: 20% of the final mark.
• Focus: Tests knowledge and conceptual understanding of the core syllabus.

Paper 2: Structured Questions

• Content: Short-answer and extended-response questions on core and additional HL topics (if applicable).
• Duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes for SL, 2 hours and 15 minutes for HL.
• Weight: 36% of the final mark.
• Focus: Assesses the application of theoretical concepts to problem-solving scenarios.

Paper 3: Option and Practical Skills

• Content: Questions based on the student's chosen option topic and practical/experimental data analysis.
• Duration: 1 hour for SL, 1 hour and 15 minutes for HL.
• Weight: 24% of the final mark.
• Focus: Evaluates experimental design, data analysis, and understanding of option-specific topics.

Internal Assessment (IA)

• Content: A student-designed investigation.
• Weight: 20% of the final mark.
• Focus: Assesses inquiry-based learning, including planning, experimentation, and analysis.

This updated format reflects the IB's emphasis on combining theoretical knowledge with practical, real-world applications to ensure students are well-prepared for further studies in science or related fields. For the timeline of this year's IB Physics exam, check out the IB Exam Schedule 2025!

What is a good IB Physics score?

A good IB Physics score is one that demonstrates a strong understanding of the subject and reflects high achievement in the course. Based on the 2024 data:

• Physics HL: The average score is 4.9, making a score of 6 or 7 indicative of strong performance. In 2024, 16.7% of students scored a 6, and 19.6% achieved the highest grade of 7.
• Physics SL: The average score is 4.2, so a score of 5 or above is commendable. In 2024, 13.0% of students scored a 6, while 10.5% achieved a 7.

For students aspiring to study physics or related fields at university, achieving a 6 or 7 in HL is highly advantageous. For instance:

• The University of Cambridge typically requires a 7 in HL Physics for competitive programs like Physical Natural Sciences .
• Other universities may have similar or slightly lower expectations depending on the program.

It is important to aim for a score that aligns with your academic goals and strengths. However, success in IB Physics is not solely about the score; developing critical thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills is equally vital for university readiness and career opportunities in science, engineering, or technology.

IB Physics SL & HL grade distributions in 2024

How to Revise and Achieve a 7 in IB Physics

Achieving a 7 in IB Physics requires dedication, organisation, and an effective study plan. Here are six proven tips from top IB Physics tutors to help you excel:

1. Start Early: Begin your revision several weeks before your exams, ideally by March. Early preparation ensures you have enough time to cover all topics, review concepts, and practice thoroughly.
2. Follow a Structured Study Schedule: Create a clear and realistic timetable that includes dedicated time for revision, practice, and review. Staying consistent with your schedule will help you manage your workload and avoid last-minute cramming.
3. Practice Past Papers and Example Questions: Familiarise yourself with the types of questions you’ll face in the exam by working through past papers. This will help you understand the level of detail required in answers and improve your problem-solving skills.
4. Seek Support from a Tutor: If certain topics are challenging, consider working with an IB Physics tutors. They can provide personalised guidance, clarify difficult concepts, and offer strategies to overcome weaknesses.
5. Utilise Quality Resources: Supplement your class notes with resources like revision guides, textbooks, and online tools. These can help fill knowledge gaps and provide additional examples and explanations.
6. Simulate Exam Conditions: Regularly complete mock exams under timed conditions. This will help you get accustomed to the exam format, improve time management, and identify areas that need more attention.

By combining consistent effort with the right strategies, you’ll be well-prepared to achieve top marks in IB Physics.

Overview of IB Physics internal assessment (2025)

The IB Physics Internal Assessment (IA) remains a significant component of the course, contributing 20% to the final grade. Under the 2025 curriculum updates, the IA retains its core purpose while placing increased emphasis on inquiry-based learning and scientific communication.

The IA involves conducting a practical investigation based on a physics-related topic of the student’s choice, aligned with the syllabus. Students can explore various approaches, including laboratory experiments, data-based investigations, simulations, or design projects. The investigation is assessed by the teacher and externally moderated by the IB.

Key features of the 2025 IA include:

• Focus on Research Skills: Students are required to demonstrate their ability to identify a research question, design a robust methodology, and analyse data effectively.
• Emphasis on Real-World Application: Investigations should highlight the practical application of physics concepts to real-world problems or phenomena.
• Clear Scientific Communication: The written report must showcase the student’s ability to present findings clearly and concisely, using appropriate physics terminology and visual aids like graphs or tables.

The IA encourages students to develop critical research, problem-solving, and analytical skills, while fostering creativity and independence. Proper planning, a strong understanding of physics concepts, and guidance from teachers are essential for producing a high-quality investigation and securing a strong grade. To learn more and get example topics, read our article: IB Physics IA: 60 Examples And Guidance.

Top resources for IB Physics preparation

Mastering IB Physics requires access to high-quality resources and a well-structured study plan. Here are the best tools and materials to help you prepare effectively:

• Textbooks and Revision Guides: Comprehensive guides like Physics for the IB Diploma Coursebook and Physics for the IB Diploma Exam Preparation Guide are indispensable for understanding key concepts, solving practice questions, and exploring experimental examples.
• Online Resources:
  • IB Physics HL Study Notes 2025 and IB Physics SL Study Notes 2025: A free, structured, and in-depth resource covering all topics in the updated curriculum to help you aim for a 7.
  • IB Physics Q&A Revision Notes: Perfect for reinforcing concepts with detailed answers to common questions.
  • Additional tools like Khan Academy and IBPhysics.org offer engaging explanations and extra practice.
• Past Papers: Familiarize yourself with exam formats and improve time management by solving past papers. Official IB past papers and mark schemes are available on the IB website and various educational platforms.
• Private Tutoring: One-on-one guidance from Physics tutors specialists like TutorChase can clarify tough topics, offer personalised study plans, and improve exam techniques.
• Practical and Laboratory Work: Maximise hands-on learning opportunities to refine skills in data collection, analysis, and evaluation—crucial for the internal assessment.

Exploring career opportunities with IB Physics

IB Physics can lead to a wide range of exciting and rewarding career opportunities. Here are some potential career paths that students may consider:

• Engineering: Engineering is a popular career choice for physics graduates. With a strong foundation in physics, students can go on to pursue careers in various fields of engineering such as mechanical, electrical, aerospace, and civil engineering.
• Data Science: Physics provides a strong foundation for data science, which is one of the fastest-growing industries students can apply their knowledge of mathematical and computational modelling to work in fields such as data analysis, machine learning, and artificial intelligence.
• Medical Physics: Medical physics involves the application of physics to the diagnosis and treatment of disease. This field offers a range of career opportunities, including medical imaging, radiation therapy, and diagnostic medical physics.
• Research: Students with a background in IB Physics can go on to pursue a career in research, either in academia or industry. Research can be in a variety of areas including energy, materials, and advanced technologies.
• Education: With a strong foundation in physics, students may consider teaching physics at the secondary or post-secondary level or becoming an online tutor.

Conclusion

IB Physics is a rigorous program that prepares students for diverse educational and career opportunities by developing critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of physics. As students prepare for higher education or careers in fields like engineering, data science, or research, leveraging a variety of resources, including specialised study materials and experienced tutors, is crucial for excelling in this challenging course.