Chemistry Higher Level International Baccalaureate group 4 subject

Applications Open - 3 November 2025

Applications Close - 23 January 2026 (This is the official deadline, when planning for the new timetable will begin; however, applications will still be accepted after this date.)

Entry Requirements

IBCP: 3 x Grade 6 & 2 x Grade 5 (inc English & Maths)

IBDP: 6 x Grade 6 & 2 x Grade 5 (inc English & Maths)

IB course option: 6 x Grade 6 & 2 x Grade 5 (inc English & Maths)

How to Apply - Please apply via KentChoices

This course is an introduction to modern chemistry and its uses, and combines academic study with the acquisition of practical and investigational skills. The higher level chemistry course teaches the skills and concepts that are required in order to study chemistry as a prerequisite for many other courses in higher education, such as medicine, veterinary medicine, biological science, biochemistry, chemical engineering and environmental science, and also serves a useful preparation for employment.

Students at both standard level (SL) and higher level (HL) undertake a common core syllabus, a common internal assessment (coursework) scheme. Students at higher level, however, are required to study some topics in greater depth. The distinction between SL and HL is one of breadth and depth.

The same topics are studied at both standard and higher level, but are taken further at higher level. Topics include:

• Calculations in chemistry
• Atomic structure
• Patterns in the periodic table
• Chemical bonding and structure
• Energy changes in reactions
• Rates of reaction
• Equilibrium
• Acids and bases
• Redox processes
• Organic chemistry
• Measurement, data processing and analysis

Students will also study one of the optional topics:

1. Materials
2. Biochemnistry
3. Energy
4. Medicinal chemistry

Assessment

Both SL and HL chemistry are assessed by three examination papers at the end of the course (80%) and an internally assessed practical investigation at the end of year 12 (20%).

Paper 1 consists of multiple choice questions on core topics, paper 2 consists of short-answer and extended response questions on core topics, and paper 3 includes questions on the core and option topics.

The internal assessment (coursework) is a fantastic opportunity for students to delve further into an area of chemistry that interests them. With guidance from staff, students choose their own individual area of research then design, carry out, analyse and evaluate an entire practical investigation.

General entry requirements:

International Baccalaureate Diploma: 6 x grade 6 and 2 x grade 5 at GCSE or equivalent.

International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme: 3 x grade 6 and 2 x grade 5 at GCSE or equivalent.