🎯 What Is a Bilingual IB Diploma?
A Bilingual IB Diploma is awarded to students who meet all the requirements of the IB Diploma and demonstrate proficiency in two languages, by either:
- Completing two Group 1 (Language A: Studies in Language and Literature) courses in different languages, or
- Taking one Group 1 course and one Group 3 (Individuals and Societies) or Group 4 (Sciences) subject taught in a second language, each with strong performance.
✔️ Pathways to Bilingual Diploma
1. Two Group 1 Languages
- Take Language A in two different languages (e.g., English A and Spanish A)
- Achieve Grade 3 or higher in both
- Both subjects can be at SL or HL
2. One Group 1 Language + One Subject Taught in Another Language
- Example: English A (Group 1) + History taught in French (Group 3)
- Again, earn at least Grade 3 in each
3. Optional EE in a Different Language
- Completing the Extended Essay in a different language than your Group 1 can further strengthen your bilingual profile
- This is optional but may support your bilingual recognition
✅ Other Diploma Requirements (Remain Standard)
- Achieve a minimum of 24 points across six subjects
- Complete core components: TOK, Extended Essay, and CAS
- All criteria for the full IB Diploma must still be met—nothing is waived for bilingual status
🎓 Why Pursue the Bilingual Diploma?
- Indicates academic fluency in two languages
- Enhances cultural awareness and adaptability
- Recognized by universities and employers as a mark of advanced multilingual capability
- Reflects the IB’s international-mindedness philosophy
🧠 Reminder: What Doesn't Count
- Only official Group 1, 3, or 4 subjects taught in another language qualify
- Supersubjects or extra subjects beyond the six don’t count
- Completing your EE alone in another language won’t qualify you for the Diploma—you need the full academic components
👩🏫 Need Support?
Mastering multiple languages and meeting all IB Diploma requirements is no small feat! If you’re aiming to earn a bilingual diploma, consider visiting RevisionDojo:
- Get a step‑by‑step guide to monitoring your language criteria
- Access sample timetables and planning tools
- Find reflected student experiences and successful case studies
👉 Visit RevisionDojo to get tailored resources and ensure you tick every box toward your bilingual goal!
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I take one language at HL and another at SL?
Yes—levels don’t matter. Grades of 3 or above in both languages are required.
Q: Is completing the EE in another language enough?
No—you must also meet one of the two academic pathways listed above.
Q: What if I write my EE in Spanish and take History in Spanish?
Writing your EE in Spanish is optional—but taking History in Spanish (Group 3 or 4) does qualify you for the bilingual diploma when combined with a different Group 1 language.
Q: Can I still earn 45 points while getting bilingual recognition?
Absolutely—as long as you complete all six subjects, TOK, EE, and CAS, and earn the required grades.
Q: Do universities care about the bilingual diploma?
Many do, especially language or multicultural-focused institutions. It's seen as a strong indicator of linguistic and academic strength.
Q: Is it harder to earn the bilingual diploma?
It requires careful planning and dedication, but with the right support and language study, it's fully achievable—and highly rewarding.
