International Baccalureate: What is IB and why might College Bound High Schoolers be interested?


Wednesday, January 6, 2021

International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes are offered at many high schools throughout the U.S.



The following information comes from the International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme’s website itself.

International Baccalaureate® (IB) programmes aim to do more than other curricula by developing inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who are motivated to succeed.

We strive to develop students who will build a better world through intercultural understanding and respect.

IB programme frameworks can operate effectively with national curricula at all ages; more than 50% of IB World Schools are state-funded.

The IB's programmes are different from other curricula because they:
  • encourage students of all ages to think critically and challenge assumptions
  • develop independently of government and national systems, incorporating quality practice from research and our global community of schools
  • encourage students of all ages to consider both local and global contexts
  • develop multilingual students.
  • In order to teach IB programmes, schools must be authorized. Every school authorized to offer IB programmes is known as an IB World School.

In order to teach IB programmes, schools must be authorized. Every school authorized to offer IB programmes is known as an IB World School.

So, what’s all the buzz about IB schools and the International Baccalaureate Diplomas that high school graduates receive from them?

Let’s start by acknowledging that IB is a worldwide, nonprofit education program that was founded to give students the chance to receive an education that is fit for a globalizing world.

What does the IB program ground itself on?

  1. Intellectual skills
  2. Emotional skills
  3. Personal skills
  4. Social skills

Who can enroll in an International Baccalaureate program?

High school students between 16 and 19 years old at a high school that offers the IB program can enroll. Some high schools may have GPA requirements and/or limited spots available in their IB programs.

When can students begin enrollment in an IB program?

Most IB students start taking their IB preparatory courses as soon as they begin high school. The application process begins in 8th grade, a year or so before a high schooler starts freshman year.

What is the difference between Advancement Placement (AP) Courses and International Baccalaureate (IB)?

Advancement Placement and International Baccalaureate programs have several similarities and differences.

Both programs look great on a high school diploma when students apply for college. Both programs provide advanced coursework for post-secondary education and keeps advanced students engaged in school. Students in both course can receive college credit upon examination and are open to all students.

Advanced Placement courses tend to be more college prep and test based, and all courses are available online.

The IB programme focuses on education for a globalizing world and is internationally recognized. It is very writing heavy and offers select courses online. An IB diploma cannot be earned completely online.

High school students who are highly interested in attending college or university next year in order to earn their bachelor's degrees can consider enrolling at a high school that offers an IB diploma. 




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