Authorized IB World Schools: How Are They Accredited for MYP?

At this stage, the IB provides initial guidance on what is required to align with the IB philosophy and structure.

2. Candidate School Phase

Once approved, the school enters the Candidate School phase. This is a critical developmental stage lasting one to two years.

During this phase, the school must:

• Align its curriculum framework with MYP requirements
• Appoint an MYP Coordinator
• Ensure teachers receive IB professional development
• Develop policies in key areas such as assessment, inclusion, and academic honesty
• Create a long-term strategic plan for IB implementation

Candidate Schools also work closely with an IB consultant, who guides them through the standards and practices required for authorization.

3. Request for Authorization

When the school believes it meets the IB’s standards, it submits a Request for Authorization. This formal application includes:

• Curriculum documents and unit plans
• Teacher training records
• Evidence of assessment strategies
• School policies and mission statement alignment
• Proof of student engagement in Service as Action and interdisciplinary learning

This stage demonstrates that the school is ready to deliver the MYP according to the IB framework.

4. Verification Visit

After reviewing the documentation, the IB sends a verification team to visit the school.

During this on-site visit, trained IB evaluators:

• Observe classes and meet teachers, administrators, and students
• Review unit plans and assessments
• Assess facilities, technology, and learning environments
• Evaluate alignment with the IB philosophy and Learner Profile

Following the visit, the team provides a report to the IB, recommending whether the school should be authorized.

If successful, the school officially becomes an IB World School authorized to offer the Middle Years Programme (MYP).

What the IB Looks For During Authorization

The IB’s evaluation is based on the document “Standards and Practices for IB World Schools.” Schools must show strong performance in several key areas:

• Philosophy: Shared commitment to the IB mission and international-mindedness
• Organization: Strong leadership, governance, and resource allocation
• Curriculum: Implementation of MYP concepts, global contexts, and assessment criteria
• Teaching and Learning: Inquiry-based approaches and student-centered pedagogy
• Assessment: Consistent use of the 1–7 grading scale and formative feedback
• Professional Development: Ongoing IB training for all staff

The IB also ensures that schools promote the Learner Profile, emphasizing values such as curiosity, empathy, and reflection.

Maintaining Authorization: Evaluation and Renewal

Authorization isn’t permanent. To remain an IB World School, institutions must undergo regular evaluations every five years.

During these evaluations, schools submit updated evidence showing they still meet IB standards. The IB may conduct another evaluation visit and recommend improvements if needed.

This continuous review ensures that every IB World School — whether in Singapore, Spain, or South Africa — delivers the same high-quality, globally consistent education.

Benefits of IB Authorization

Becoming an IB World School offers significant advantages:

• Global recognition and prestige among international education communities
• Access to IB training, resources, and assessment support
• Ability to collaborate with a network of IB educators worldwide
• Attraction for families seeking internationally transferable education
• Opportunity to prepare students for future IB programmes such as the DP or CP

Authorized schools become part of a global family dedicated to inquiry, diversity, and excellence in learning.

How Parents Can Verify IB Authorization

Parents can easily check if a school is officially authorized by visiting the IB’s website and using the Find an IB World School directory at ibo.org.

Each authorized school is listed by name, location, and programme offered. If a school claims to be “IB-based” but is not listed, it is not officially recognized by the IB Organization.

Conclusion

Becoming an IB World School is a rigorous but rewarding journey. Authorization ensures that every school teaching the Middle Years Programme (MYP) upholds the same global standards of academic integrity, innovation, and inclusivity.

For educators, it’s a mark of professional excellence. For parents, it’s assurance that their child is receiving an internationally benchmarked education. And for students, it’s the beginning of a transformative experience that builds the curiosity, empathy, and critical thinking skills needed to shape a better world.

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