International Baccalaureate (IB) is a two-year diploma alternative to A-levels for students aged 16–19. It provides an internationally accepted qualification for entry into higher education, and is recognised by many universities worldwide. Click the link for an overview of UK routes to higher education.
The programme is concerned as a “two-tier” education system comprising three core components to develop students’ critical thinking, high level research skills and personal development, plus six subjects from the six different subject groups designed to address the intellectual, social, emotional and physical well-being of students:
- Core components:
- Creativity Action Service (CAS)
- Theory of Knowledge (ToK)
- Extended Essay
- Six subjects:
- English
- Modern Languages
- Social Sciences
- Experimental Sciences
- Mathematics
- Arts with electives
The subjects are assessed using both internal and external assessments, and each subject is scored from 1 to 7, with 7 being equal to A*, 6 equal to A, and so on. A minimum of 24 points is required to pass the Diploma.
International Baccalaureate Diploma is an internationally recognised qualification that prepares students for university study. The programme is highly regarded by Universities in the UK, and has also gained recognition and respect from the world’s leading universities.
Non-European students can only study International Baccalaureate at an UK fee-paying independent school. A Tier 4 (Child) Visa if under age 16 or a Tier 4 (General) student visa is required. Click the link to read more about UK independent schools, and to compare the performance of top UK independent schools.