Understanding IB Program Entry Points
IB schools offer entry at three levels:
📘 Primary Years Programme (PYP)
- Age: 3–12
- Most schools offer year-round admissions or start with the regular school year.
📗 Middle Years Programme (MYP)
- Age: 11–16 (Grades 6–10)
- Many schools offer entry points in Grade 6, 7, or 9.
📕 Diploma Programme (DP)
- Age: 16–19 (Grades 11–12 or Year 12–13)
- The most common and competitive entry point.
- Typically a two-year program that begins in August or September.
General IB Admissions Timeline
Most IB schools begin the application process 9–12 months before the academic year begins.
🗓️ Key Application Windows:
- September–November: Application window opens
- October–January: Entrance assessments and interviews
- February–March: Admission offers released
This applies to both public magnet schools and private international schools.
When to Apply for the IB Diploma Programme
Applying for the IB DP? Follow this general schedule:
⏳ Application Start:
- September to October of the previous year
📝 Entrance Exams/Interviews:
- Typically held from October to December
📬 Offer Letters:
- Sent out between December and March
📅 Example:
For a September 2025 start, applications likely opened in September 2024, with exams in November 2024, and offers by January 2025.
When to Apply for MYP or Pre-IB Entry
📆 Middle School & Early High School Entry:
- Application windows are slightly earlier—some schools begin in August or early September.
- Grade 6–9 admissions may also include interviews or placement assessments.
🧒 Early Years:
- Many PYP schools offer rolling admissions—apply anytime if space is available.
What the IB Admissions Process Looks Like
📄 Typical Steps:
- Complete online or paper application
- Submit documents: transcripts, recommendation letters, personal statements
- Attend interviews (for older students)
- Write entrance assessments or subject tests
- Receive decision and confirm enrollment
💰 Financial Aid and Fees:
- Private IB schools often have separate deadlines for scholarships—apply early!
Differences in Admissions by Region
🇺🇸 United States:
- Public IB schools often use district-wide application portals.
- Magnet school applications are typically due by October 1st.
🇬🇧 United Kingdom & 🇪🇺 Europe:
- Most private schools accept IB applicants with standard deadlines in autumn.
- Interviews are common for DP entry.
🌏 Asia & International Schools:
- International IB schools begin applications as early as 12–15 months prior.
- Often cater to expats and offer flexible admissions cycles, especially in Singapore, UAE, and Hong Kong.
Why IB Admissions Begin Early
IB schools need lead time to:
- Assess student readiness for academic rigor
- Structure HL and SL courses
- Prepare for visa documentation for international families
- Assign trained IB subject teachers
FAQs – IB School Admissions Timeline
Can I apply mid-year?
Rarely for DP; more likely in PYP or early MYP if space is available.
Is there an entrance test for every school?
Not all, but many private and competitive public schools do test academic skills or English proficiency.
What if I miss the application deadline?
Contact the school immediately—some may keep a waitlist or offer rolling admissions.
Can students transfer into IB mid-program?
Possible, but complex—especially in DP due to HL/SL subject alignment and IA progress.
Are IB admissions competitive?
For top-tier IB schools, yes—especially in high-demand cities or for DP-level entry.
When should I start preparing my application?
At least 12 months before the desired start date. Gather documents and prepare for interviews early.
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