Introduction
It’s common for IB students to look at their non-IB peers and think: “Why do they have so much more free time than I do?” With Internal Assessments, Extended Essay, CAS, and six subjects to juggle, the IB workload can feel overwhelming — and often unfair.
As a parent, you may hear complaints about the “unfairness” of IB and feel unsure how to respond. Should you agree? Should you encourage them to push through? The truth lies somewhere in the middle: acknowledging the challenge while also helping your teen see the bigger picture.
Quick Start Checklist
If your teen feels IB is unfair compared to other programs:
- Acknowledge their frustration: Don’t dismiss it.
- Validate the difference: IB is more demanding — that’s true.
- Reframe the challenge: Focus on skills IB builds for the future.
- Encourage balance: Breaks and rest are necessary.
- Avoid comparisons at home: Celebrate their unique path.
- Highlight long-term benefits: Universities and careers value IB experience.
Why Teens Feel IB Is Unfair
- More assignments: IB includes additional components beyond regular coursework.
- Less free time: Non-IB peers may enjoy lighter schedules.
- High stakes: The IB’s grading structure creates pressure.
- Comparisons: Seeing friends in other systems reinforces the contrast.
These feelings are natural — and they need both empathy and perspective.
How Parents Can Support
1. Validate Their Feelings
Say, “You’re right — IB does require more work.” This shows understanding before offering perspective.
2. Reframe the Narrative
Explain that IB is designed to challenge students not only academically, but also in skills like time management, resilience, and independent thinking. These are advantages, not punishments.
3. Share the Long-Term Benefits
Remind your teen that IB is internationally recognized, respected by universities, and often prepares students better for the demands of higher education.
4. Encourage Healthy Boundaries
If the workload feels crushing, help your teen set realistic goals and schedule breaks. Balance prevents burnout and makes IB more sustainable.
5. Avoid Adding Comparisons at Home
Focus on your child’s growth, not how they measure up to peers in other programs. Each student’s path is unique.
What Parents Should Avoid
- Dismissing their frustration with “That’s just life.”
- Overpraising the IB as “superior.” This can increase resentment.
- Comparing siblings if one is in IB and others are not.
- Expecting nonstop work without breaks.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the IB workload really heavier than other programs?
Yes, IB generally requires more assignments and broader assessments than many national systems. However, it also develops critical thinking and academic independence that benefit students later.
2. What should I say if my teen says, “It’s not fair”?
Acknowledge the truth in their statement, but also help them reframe: “Yes, IB is demanding — but it’s also preparing you with skills that many others won’t have.”
3. Can feeling “unfairness” affect motivation?
Yes. If not addressed, resentment can lead to burnout. Parents can help by validating feelings, celebrating progress, and reinforcing the bigger purpose behind the effort.
4. Should I let my child reduce activities to lighten their load?
If balance is an issue, yes. Dropping non-essential commitments or adjusting routines can make the workload feel more manageable.
5. How do I explain IB’s value without sounding dismissive?
Focus on future benefits — university readiness, international recognition, and life skills — while still respecting your teen’s current frustration.
6. What if my child wants to quit IB because of this unfairness?
Explore the reasons carefully. Sometimes frustration is temporary, caused by stress before deadlines. If the issue feels deeper, consult with teachers and consider whether alternative pathways might suit them better.
Conclusion
IB’s workload is undeniably heavier than many other programs, and teens may feel this is unfair compared to their peers. As a parent, your role is to validate those feelings while helping your child see the long-term value of their effort. With empathy, perspective, and balance, you can support them in turning frustration into resilience.
At RevisionDojo, we believe IB students gain more than grades — they gain skills for life. Supporting your teen through the “unfair” moments helps them see the strength they are building along the way.
