The IB Maths resources on this page cover four course and level combinations. Students choose either Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches (AA) or Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation (AI), then study it at standard level (SL) or higher level (HL). The links below bring the official course information and specimen papers into one clear starting point.
Choose an IB Maths resource
Official IB mathematics course information
Open the official IB mathematics curriculum page
Understand the four IB Maths options
Since August 2019, the IB has offered AA at SL and HL and AI at SL and HL, with first assessment in May 2021. A Diploma Programme student studies one of these four options. Both courses include number and algebra, functions, geometry and trigonometry, statistics and probability, and calculus. The balance, teaching approach and assessment demands are different.
The unfiltered bottom line
- AA and AI aren’t difficulty labels. They emphasise different ways of using mathematics, and both require sound understanding at SL and HL.
- Course and level are separate choices. Consider AA or AI first, then decide whether SL or HL matches preparation, workload and future study.
- University requirements can change. Check the exact degree page for the intended entry year before making a course decision.
Analysis and Approaches
AA may suit you if you enjoy developing mathematical arguments, working with algebra and exploring how mathematical ideas connect. It places more emphasis on analytical methods and abstract reasoning. Technology is still important, but not every external assessment paper permits it. The right level depends on your preparation, interests and future study requirements.
Applications and Interpretation
AI puts more weight on mathematics in context, modelling, data, statistics and interpreting technology-supported results. It still contains algebra and calculus. It isn’t simply the easy version of IB Maths. Students need to choose useful methods, use a graphic display calculator well and explain what an answer means in the situation.
How to use the specimen-paper pages
- Choose the page for the course and level you study.
- Open the official specimen pack and locate the relevant paper before starting.
- Attempt a small group of questions without reading the markscheme.
- Use the markscheme to check method, notation and the form of the final answer.
- Record one or two weaknesses and practise those skills with new questions.
A specimen pack shows the structure and style of the assessment, but it isn’t a complete archive of every examination session. Use it with the current subject guide, advice from your teacher and any authorised school resources.
Check which curriculum applies to you
The resources here describe the courses first assessed in May 2021. The IB has also published updated course information for first assessment in May 2029. Students approaching that transition should confirm their assessment year with their IB coordinator and use the subject brief linked from the live IB curriculum page. Don’t assume that an older paper or brief describes every condition for a later cohort.
Before choosing AA or AI
Start with the mathematics you enjoy and the way you solve problems, then check future study requirements. Some university courses specify a mathematics subject or level, while others don’t. Requirements can differ between universities and can change. Check the exact course page for the year you plan to enter, and discuss the choice with your IB coordinator or careers adviser before enrolment.
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