International Baccalaureate (IB)

Students must complete a course from all six academic areas and complete the three areas inside the hexagon in order to receive the Diploma. Three of the six academic subjects are studied at Higher Level, and three are Studied at Standard Level.

Following its introduction the IB Diploma Programme has earned a highly respected reputation as a rigorous course for pupils. Assessment in the six academic subjects is by a combination of terminal examination papers and coursework. Each of the academic subjects will be awarded a number grade from 1 to 7.

The three areas inside the hexagon are also assessed and receive up to three further marks all together.

Consequently there are a total of 45 points available: 42 from the academic subjects, 3 from the core courses. The Diploma is awarded to candidates who have a total score of 24 or more points. Obviously the higher the diploma score, the better the diploma is regarded.

The three core elements of the IB Diploma program have to be completed, but no score is required in order to be awarded the diploma. A score of 1 or better is required in each of the academic subjects. There are also a set of conditions regarding the award of the diploma at the lower end ensuring that no pupil can score say three 7s and three 1s and still be awarded the diploma.

The IB Diploma programme has an international reputation as an academic course which is excellent preparation for university. In Europe, North America, Australasia and elsewhere, the Diploma is regarded as an excellent credential for admission into universities. Most North American universities have an IB policy regarding advanced placement and college credit.