International Baccalaureate Subject Choices

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights regarding your situation:

1. Impact of Math SL vs. Math HL:

   • UK Universities: Many top universities in the UK do require Math HL for certain courses, especially those related to Economics, Finance, and Engineering. Since you are not aiming to study in the UK, this might not be a significant issue for you.
   • US Universities: For T50 universities in the US, Math HL is often preferred, but Math SL can still be acceptable, especially if you have strong extracurriculars (ECs) and other high-level subjects like Economics HL and Physics HL. Admissions officers will consider your overall profile, including your ECs and other academic strengths.

2. Extracurricular Activities (ECs):

   • Strong ECs can significantly bolster your application. They demonstrate your leadership, commitment, and diverse interests, which are highly valued by US universities.

3. Admission Officers' Perspective:

   • Admission officers look at the rigor of your overall curriculum. While Math HL is more rigorous, having other HL subjects like Economics and Physics can balance your profile.
   • They also consider the context of your school and the opportunities available to you. If Math HL was not an option, make sure to explain this in your application.

4. Scholarships and Financial Aid:

   • For scholarships, especially merit-based ones, a strong overall academic record and impressive ECs are crucial. Math SL should not significantly hinder your chances if the rest of your application is strong.

5. Breaking into Investment Banking (IB):

   • For IB, the prestige of your university and your performance there are important. Focus on excelling in your chosen university, gaining relevant internships, and building a strong network.

Recommendations:

• Highlight Strengths: Emphasize your HL subjects and strong ECs in your application.
• Explain Context: If possible, provide context for why you took Math SL instead of HL.
• Focus on Overall Profile: Ensure your application showcases a well-rounded and rigorous academic and extracurricular profile.

By focusing on these aspects, you can mitigate the impact of not taking Math HL and still aim for top universities in the US and Europe.

Sources: Does the major you do matter to BB banks?, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/school/qa-quant-actuary-turned-future-mba-student?customgpt=1, This is going to be a special topic (Highschool Junior), How do I get my kids into top 5 schools?, 3.9 GPA from an Ivy League school in a useless major. What are my options?