Psychology Standard Level International Baccalaureate group 3 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

Psychology is the scientific study of behaviour and mental processes. It is a complex subject which draws on concepts, methods and understandings from a number of different disciplines. Human beings are complex animals, with highly developed frontal lobes, cognitive abilities, involved social structures and cultures. The study of behaviour and mental processes requires a multidisiplinary approach and the use of a variety of research techniques. IB Psychology helps us understand a range of topics from a biological, cognitive and socio-cultural approach enabling students to adopt a holistic approach.

1. Both higher level and standard level students will study the three compulsory levels of analysis (biological, cognitive and sociocultural). This will be examined in paper 1 of the exam.

2. Higher level students study two options from a possible five including sport, abnormal, developmental relationships or health psychology. Standard level students study only one option. This will be examined in paper 2 of the exam.

3. Higher level students study qualitative research methodology. This will be examined in paper 3 of the exam.

4. Internal assessment: higher level and standard level students conduct and report upon an experimental study. Inferential statistical analysis and a more in-depth approach are required of higher level students but not required of standard level students.

Higher level

Paper 1

Section A: Three short-answer questions on the core approaches to psychology

Section B: One essay from a choice of three on the biological, cognitive and sociocultural approaches to behaviour. (49 marks) 40%

Paper 2

Two questions; one from a choice of three on each of two options (44 marks) 20%

Paper 3

Three short-answer questions from a list of six static questions on approches to research (24 marks) 20%

Internal assessment (20 hours)

This component is internally assessed by the teacher and externally moderated by the IB at the end of the course.

External study

A report on an experimental study undertaken by the studne (22 marks) 20%

Standard Level

Paper 1

Section A: three short-answer questions on the core approaches to psychology (27 marks)

Section B One essay from a choice of three on the biological, cognitive and sociocultural approaches to behaviour (22 marks)

(Total 29 marks) 50%

Paper 2

One question from a choice of three on one option (22 marks) 25%

Internal assessment (20 hours)

This component is internally assessed by the teacher and externally moderated by the IB at the end of the course.

Experimental study

A report on an experimental study undertaken by the student. (22 marks) 25%

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.