Maths: Applications and Interpretaton Higher Level (Print book and eBook) (NYP Due June 2026)

Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation for the IB Diploma Higher Level (Print Book + eBook) is Pearson’s new textbook for IB Math AI HL under the IB’s 2027 Subject Guide. It was developed in cooperation with the IB and is led by Series Editor Ibrahim Wazir, a former IB Mathematics Chief Examiner. It is written for students who start the course in August 2027 and take their first exams in May 2029.

At a Glance

• Course: IB Diploma Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation
• Level: Higher Level (HL)
• Syllabus: 2027 Subject Guide, first exams May 2029
• In the box: printed student textbook plus eBook code (2 years of access)
• Publisher: Pearson
• ISBN: 9781292767284

Who Takes AI HL?

AI HL is the higher-level IB math course for students who want serious mathematical depth with a practical focus. It centres on mathematical modelling, statistical analysis and technology, alongside functions and calculus. It suits students aiming for degrees in fields like data science, economics, business analytics, biology, medicine, psychology, geography or architecture, where applying math to real data matters most.

The 2027 AI HL Syllabus: What’s New, What’s Gone

The IB describes the update as a refinement, not a reinvention. Here’s what HL students need to know.

Removed from AI HL:

• Complex numbers
• The vector product
• The Poisson distribution
• Hypothesis tests for the mean of a normal distribution, the mean of a Poisson distribution, and the correlation coefficient

Added: nothing. The IB reduced the course content without introducing new topics.

Exams from May 2029:

• Papers 1 and 2: 100 marks each (down from 110)
• Paper 3: 50 marks in 1 hour (down from 55 marks in 1 hour 15 minutes)

Internal assessment: students still complete the Mathematical Exploration. HL now uses the same criteria as SL, built on four stages: problem specification, abstraction, computation and interpretation.

Tip for buyers: Older AI HL textbooks still teach complex numbers, the Poisson distribution and the removed hypothesis tests. Students starting in 2027 need a book written for the new guide, like this one.

Learning to Think Like a Modeller

Every worked example in this book follows the IB’s four-stage inquiry process:

Because the new IA is marked on exactly these stages, students practise the IA skills in every chapter, not only when the Exploration begins.

Inside Each Chapter

1. Learning objectives show what the chapter covers in the new guide.
2. Do You Recall questions check the background knowledge is in place.
3. Explorations invite students to investigate before the formal explanation.
4. Worked examples model the inquiry process step by step.
5. Key Fact, Key Term and Hint boxes pick out what matters and flag common errors.
6. Investigations and Reflections extend ideas into deeper or new contexts.
7. Challenge tags mark stretch material for students aiming for a 7.
8. Exercises and practice questions, including past IB paper questions, build exam readiness.

A dedicated Internal Assessment chapter guides students through planning and writing their Mathematical Exploration.

The Team Behind the Book

The book is led by Ibrahim Wazir: former IB Mathematics Chief Examiner, member of the IB Curriculum Committee, and founder of the International Schools Math Teachers Foundation. The authors are experienced IB teachers who also work as IB examiners, IA moderators, workshop leaders and contributors to IB curriculum reviews.

Book Details

• Title: Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation for the IB Diploma Higher Level (Print Book + eBook)
• Series Editor: Ibrahim Wazir
• Publisher: Pearson
• ISBN-13: 9781292767284
• Includes: 1 printed student textbook plus 1 eBook access code (2-year subscription)
• Syllabus: IB DP Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation, 2027 Subject Guide
• First teaching / first exams: August 2027 / May 2029
• Level: Higher Level (HL)

Questions Parents and Students Ask

Is complex numbers still in IB Math AI HL?
No. Complex numbers are removed from AI HL from the 2027 syllabus, along with the vector product and the Poisson distribution.

How long is AI HL Paper 3 now?
One hour, for 50 marks, starting with the May 2029 exams.

Can an AI SL student use this book?
It’s written for HL. SL students should use Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation for the IB Diploma Standard Level (ISBN 9781292499611).

Does AI HL count for university math requirements?
It depends on the university and degree. Some STEM programs prefer or require AA HL, so check entry requirements before choosing a course.

How long does the eBook last?
The included code gives 2 years of access, which covers the full two-year Diploma course.