katzeyez

For Wharton ED,

I've had schedule conflicts and was forced to take the standard level. My predicted score is 7, but I hear that Wharton expects applicants to take the most rigorous classes.. especially when it comes to math. I did take (perhaps 'the' most) rigorous schedule in my graduating pool with 5HLs in 11th grade and 7 subjects in 12th (with History HL), but my SL Math somewhat holds me back from making up my mind.

So the questions are,
1. Does having taken Math SL put me in a serious disadvantage, even if I get 7?

2. Does taking extra IB subjects (other than 6) count as taking the 'rigorous' options?

deathblade127

1. yes .if your school offers hl but you still took sl, youre in trouble as the calc in sl is anotger level from

2.yes, but maths is very important.

psychedelia

Did you ever/are you planning on taking the math subject tests? I believe those can demonstrate adequate math skills.

deathblade127

^He needs a calculus component, and I remember SL will be a disadvantage.

From: What Wharton Wants - Businessweek

I am a Brazilian citizen studying at the American School of Milan. Due to the fact that my family and I are constantly on the move, I haven't always been able to take the classes I wanted to. Although I'm a full IB diploma student, I'm taking standard instead of higher-level math. Nevertheless, my SAT scores and math teacher recommendations are likely to demonstrate my strong ability in math. Will not taking higher-level math be a serious disadvantage?

Stetson: It could be. However, we will realize your unique circumstances and judge you accordingly. You should still try to enroll in the most challenging math curriculum.

steelergolf11

What about if I took IB Math studies junior year because it was my school's hardest math class for juniors, got a 7, and took Ap calc senior year?

deathblade127

^Math Studies is DEFINITELY not rigorous enough - Did you take any normal math courses?

steelergolf11

What do you mean? I've taken algebra and geometry like everyone else, but my school doesn't have math hl. However, I'm taking ap calc so how could this be held against me?

deathblade127

Well in our school, since we have a full IB diploma, Math studies is the least rigorous course. However, since I presume you're in the states, as long as you're taking the most rigorous math curriculum in the "context of your school", you should be fine. Sorry, i thought you were a IB diploma candidate.

steelergolf11

I am going for the diploma but we have no math hl and our hls are in other subjects

deathblade127

oh really? Do you have SL math though?

psychedelia

@steelergolf11, if your school doesn't offer HL Math than Wharton cannot expect you to have taken it But quick question--are you taking AP Calc AB or BC? The way I understand it AB is roughly equivalent to SL and BC is roughly equivalent to HL.

steelergolf11

AB
I imagine that there still must be people who get in with AB though if it is the highest math that your school offers. I made the most of my opportunities with nearly all 100s in math classes and a 7 on the ib exam

psychedelia

If AB is the highest math offered at your school and you're taking it, it won't work against you. Colleges have to consider the applicant in regards to the school the applicant attends.

katzeyez

Thanks guys, I applied to CAS instead, since I am interested in communications too.

Wish me luck !