University pathways
Do universities accept DP arts subjects? Check the evidence.
A short list of official sources for checking what universities actually require, from the IB itself to medical schools, engineering courses and UK admissions. Use it before advising a student to drop an arts subject “to keep their options open”.
Who it’s for
- University and guidance counsellors
- DP coordinators
- Arts teachers
- Students and families
Subject choice should follow the evidence for a student’s intended pathway. “Keeping options open” should not itself become a reason to close one down. These sources answer two of the twelve barriers directly: perceived university admissions bias and the two-science default.
Check before using
University requirements change. Always use the current university course page when advising an individual student, and look for requirements stated for IB Diploma applicants, not only A levels. Where information is unclear, contact the university rather than filling the gap with an assumption.
Start with the IB
- Course-selection guidanceInternational BaccalaureateExplains required, preferred and recommended subjects, for students, parents and counsellors.(opens in a new tab)
- Example subject choicesInternational BaccalaureateSample Diploma combinations for different pathways, including an aspiring engineer who keeps music.(opens in a new tab)
- Countries and universities that recognise the IBInternational BaccalaureateSearchable recognition statements, useful for checking subject prerequisites.(opens in a new tab)
- Guides for students applying to universityInternational BaccalaureateCountry-specific guides for students, with a short video to share with families.(opens in a new tab)
Medicine
- UK medical school entry requirementsMedical Schools CouncilFilter by whether chemistry is compulsory, to see which sciences are genuinely required.(opens in a new tab)
- How to choose the best premed majorAssociation of American Medical CollegesUS medical schools do not generally require a particular undergraduate major.(opens in a new tab)
UK universities
- Informed ChoicesRussell GroupWhich subjects are essential or useful for different degrees. Check IB wording on course pages.(opens in a new tab)
- Admissions informationLondon School of Economics and Political ScienceAn example of an institution that still distinguishes between preferred and non-preferred subjects.(opens in a new tab)