One of the most important decisions IB students face is whether to take IB Design Technology (DT) at Standard Level (SL) or Higher Level (HL). Many students assume HL is simply “harder SL,” but the reality is more nuanced. The two levels differ not just in workload, but in depth, expectations, and how you are assessed.

Choosing the right level can make the difference between enjoying the subject and constantly struggling with it.

What Is the Core Difference Between SL and HL?

Both SL and HL students:

• Study the same core design concepts
• Complete the same design project (IA)
• Sit written exams

However, HL goes deeper, not broader.

HL students are expected to:

• Explain concepts with greater depth
• Evaluate decisions more critically
• Make stronger links between theory and practice

SL focuses more on understanding and application, while HL emphasises analysis and evaluation.

Content Differences Between SL and HL

HL includes additional content areas and more detailed treatment of systems and processes.

HL students typically study:

• More complex systems thinking
• Deeper analysis of manufacturing and production
• Greater technical justification

SL content is more accessible and focuses on core principles without as much technical depth.

This means HL answers are expected to be more detailed, precise, and evaluative.

Exam Differences: SL vs HL

HL exams:

• Are longer
• Include higher-mark evaluation questions
• Expect more developed extended responses

SL exams:

• Are shorter
• Focus more on explanation than deep evaluation

HL students who write descriptive answers often lose marks quickly because examiners expect judgement and trade-offs.

Is the Design Project Harder at HL?

The design project is the same task at both levels, but expectations differ.

HL students are expected to:

• Show stronger justification
• Demonstrate deeper iteration
• Evaluate decisions more critically

The project is not longer at HL, but the quality of thinking expected is higher.

Students who do well at SL but struggle with evaluation often find HL challenging.

Who Should Choose IB Design Technology HL?

HL is usually a good choice if you:

• Enjoy explaining why things work
• Are comfortable evaluating strengths and weaknesses
• Like connecting ideas across topics
• Are aiming for engineering, design, or technical courses

HL suits students who are confident writers and reflective thinkers.

Who Should Choose IB Design Technology SL?

SL may be the better option if you:

• Want a balanced workload
• Prefer clear application over deep evaluation
• Are already managing heavy HL subjects
• Enjoy design but not long analytical writing

SL is not “easy,” but it is more forgiving if evaluation is a weaker skill.

Does HL Look Better for Universities?

Universities care more about:

• Overall subject combination
• Grades achieved
• Relevance to intended course

HL DT can strengthen applications for design- and engineering-related courses, but a strong SL grade is always better than a weak HL grade.

Never choose HL purely for prestige.

Common SL vs HL Mistakes

Students often struggle because they:

• Choose HL without enjoying evaluation
• Underestimate the writing demands of HL
• Assume SL requires little effort
• Choose based on friends rather than strengths

DT rewards alignment between level and learning style.

How to Decide Strategically

Ask yourself:

• Do I enjoy evaluation and reflection?
• Can I manage HL alongside my other subjects?
• Do my university plans benefit from HL DT?

If unsure, speak to your teacher early and be honest about your strengths.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you switch from HL to SL?

Often yes, early in the course. Switching later can be difficult due to missed expectations.

Is it easier to score a 7 at SL?

Not necessarily. SL grade boundaries can be competitive. Clarity and consistency matter more than level.

Is HL DT overwhelming?

Only if poorly managed. Students who enjoy the subject often prefer HL once they adapt.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between IB Design Technology SL and HL is not about difficulty — it is about fit. The best choice is the one that allows you to demonstrate your strengths consistently across coursework and exams.

RevisionDojo Tip

RevisionDojo is the best platform for IB Design Technology students at both SL and HL, offering level-specific guidance, exam strategies, and IA support. Whether you choose SL or HL, RevisionDojo helps you meet expectations confidently and turn the subject into a scoring advantage.