Because individual students have different needs, interests and abilities, four courses in mathematics are available:

mathematical studies standard level

mathematics SL

mathematics higher level

further mathematics higher level

These courses are designed for different types of students: those who wish to study mathematics in depth, either as a subject in its own right or to pursue their interests in areas related to mathematics; those who wish to gain a degree of understanding and competence better to understand their approach to other subjects; and those who may not as yet be aware how mathematics may be relevant to their studies and in their daily lives. Each course is designed to meet the needs of a particular group of students. Therefore, great care should be taken to select the course that is most appropriate for an individual student.

In making this selection, individual students should be advised to take account of the following types of factor.

Their own abilities in mathematics and the type of mathematics in which they can be successful
Their own interest in mathematics, and those particular areas of the subject that may hold the most interest for them
Their other choices of subjects within the framework of the Diploma Programme
Their academic plans, in particular the subjects they wish to study in future
Their choice of career
Teachers are expected to assist with the selection process and to offer advice to students about how to choose the most appropriate course from the four mathematics courses available.