What Is the IB Baccalaureate?
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Baccalaureate, often simply referred to as the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP), is a rigorous two-year pre-university curriculum for students aged 16–19. It’s offered by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO), a global nonprofit founded in Switzerland in 1968.
Unlike traditional national curriculums, the IB Baccalaureate is international in scope, encourages critical thinking, and is recognized by top universities worldwide.
Key Features of the IB Baccalaureate
- Six subject groups covering a broad range of academic disciplines
- A required Core: Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Extended Essay (EE), and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)
- Graded out of 45 points total (6 subjects × 7 points + up to 3 core bonus points)
- Emphasizes independent research, intercultural understanding, and well-rounded development
- Encourages multilingualism and global awareness
Subject Groups in the IB Baccalaureate
Students choose one subject from each group:
- Language and Literature (e.g., English A)
- Language Acquisition (e.g., Spanish B, French Ab Initio)
- Individuals and Societies (e.g., History, Geography, Economics)
- Sciences (e.g., Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
- Mathematics (e.g., AA or AI at HL/SL)
- The Arts (e.g., Visual Arts, Music) or a second subject from Groups 1–4
