International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme Overview

About IB Diploma Programme (DP)

The International Baccalaureate® (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) is a two-year educational programme primarily aimed at students aged 16-19. Established in 1968, the DP is globally recognized for its high academic standards and rigorous assessment. The programme aims to develop students who have excellent breadth and depth of knowledge, and who flourish physically, intellectually, emotionally, and ethically. The DP prepares students for success at university and life beyond.

All Boards Offered by IB

The IB does not offer multiple boards like the IGCSE but instead provides a unified curriculum under the IB Diploma Programme. This is implemented in a variety of schools worldwide, including state-supported schools, independent schools, and international schools.

Years Offered by IB

The IB Diploma Programme is designed for students in the final two years of secondary education, typically for ages 16 to 19. It follows the completion of the Middle Years Programme (MYP) and precedes higher education.

IB Exam Pattern

The DP curriculum consists of six subject groups and the DP core, comprising Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS), and the Extended Essay (EE). Each student takes at least one subject from each of the six groups:

1. Studies in language and literature
   2. Language acquisition
   3. Individuals and societies
   4. Sciences
   5. Mathematics
   6. The arts

Students may choose to study an additional subject from groups 1-4 instead of a subject from group 6. Assessment includes internal and external evaluations. Internal assessments are carried out by teachers and externally moderated by the IB, while external assessments are primarily examinations held at the end of the two-year programme.

Breakthrough of IB Exam and Duration

The majority of assessments in the DP are written examinations taken at the end of the two-year course. These exams are complemented by internal assessments, including practical work, projects, and presentations. The duration of exams varies by subject but typically ranges from 1 to 2.5 hours per paper.

IB Exam Frequency

IB exams are held annually in two sessions: May and November. The May session is the main examination period, while the November session is for students in the Southern Hemisphere or those needing to retake exams.

IB Grading System

The IB Diploma is awarded based on a points system, where each of the six subjects is graded on a scale of 1 to 7. Up to three additional points can be earned from the core components (TOK and the EE), making the maximum possible score 45 points. To be awarded the diploma, students must achieve at least 24 points, meet all CAS requirements, and have no failing conditions (such as scoring less than a 2 in any subject).

Subjects Offered by IB