Also known as the IB Diploma, the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) is one of the most prestigious and recognised educational programmes in the world. It is a programme designed for 16-19 year olds that is as challenging as it is stimulating. 

Its holistic approach is geared towards evaluating academic performance and, at the same time, promoting the comprehensive development of students in different areas and skills such as collaboration, communication and leadership, which are essential in today’s job market.

This educational methodology has a number of advantages that place it above other educational systems. In fact, IB Diploma students have a higher acceptance rate in some of the best universities in countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom. 

But what is the IB Diploma? Read on to find out how the programme is organised, what the subjects are and what requirements are necessary to complete it.

What is the IBDP or IB Diploma?

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) is a two-year educational programme that prepares students for the academic challenges of higher education and adult life. Created in 1968 in Switzerland, it has since been adopted by schools in more than 150 countries and is one of the most prestigious academic options in the world.

At the end of the programme, students sit examinations and must achieve between 24 and 45 points to obtain the diploma. Academic subjects, extracurricular activities, research projects and skills related to critical thinking, intercultural communication and complex problem solving are all assessed.

What is the IB Diploma Programme?

The main objective of the IB Diploma Programme is to produce highly integrated students with an international perspective. Methodology focuses on the physical, emotional and ethical development of students, seeking a balance between academic excellence and personal development.

  • One of the key goals of the IBDP is for students to acquire a broad knowledge base. As such, each student is required to study at least two languages, as well as other subjects related to science, mathematics and the humanities. 
  • Another pillar of the programme is Theory of Knowledge (ToK), a unique IBDP course that invites students to reflect on how they learn and to question their own techniques for assimilating concepts. This is fundamental to the development of critical thinking and helps students understand the nature of information in today’s world.
  • In addition, the IBDP encourages an ethical and caring mindset. Students participate in community service activities, enabling them to contribute to their own environment and to develop a more empathetic way of thinking. The IBDP develops students to be aware, responsible and prepared to face the challenges of globalisation with a humanistic and multicultural perspective.

IB Programme Subjects

The IB Programme curriculum is divided into six subject groups. Students must choose one subject from each group in order to obtain a balanced education. Each subject is offered at two levels: Higher Level (NS), with 240 teaching hours, and Middle Level (NM), with 150 hours. 

Group 1:  Studies in Language and Literature

This group includes subjects related to the study of the student’s native language and its literature.  Its aim is to improve comprehension and critical analysis of literary texts, as well as to promote oral and written expression.

Group 2: Language acquisition

Students choose an additional language, which may be a second foreign language or the language of the country where the programme takes place. The aim is to develop competence in an additional language and cultural understanding in a way that fosters intercultural communication.

Group 3: Individuals and societies

This group includes disciplines such as history, geography, economics and psychology. There is a focus on promoting a better understanding of social and human relations and it prepares students to analyse global problems from different points of view.

Group 4: Science

The science group offers subjects such as biology, physics, chemistry and environmental science. Each course has an experimental component that enables students to apply the scientific method, understand natural processes and acquire research skills.

Group 5: Mathematics

Mathematics subjects are adapted to different levels and needs. They are designed to prepare students for both everyday life and for specific careers that require advanced mathematical knowledge, from applied mathematics options to more advanced mathematics. 

Group 6: Arts

This group is optional and allows students to discover their talents in artistic disciplines such as music, drama and visual arts. However, it is possible to opt for other science or humanities subjects instead of an arts subject.

IB Programme compulsory requirements

In addition to the subjects mentioned above, the IB Diploma requires students to complete three compulsory components: the Theory of Knowledge (ToK), the Extended Essay (EE) and the Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS) programme.

Theory of Knowledge (ToK)

The Theory of Knowledge course is a unique course that encourages students to question the process of acquiring knowledge and to reflect on the sources of information. Students participate in discussions and presentations on topics such as truth, perception and different scientific viewpoints. 

The ToK assessment includes an oral presentation and a 1,600-word essay, in which students set out their reflections and conclusions on philosophical and epistemological issues.

Extended Essay (EE)

The Extended Essay is a research project that ends with the completion of an essay of up to 4,000 words on a topic chosen by the student and supervised by a teacher. Research allows students to develop academic research and writing skills. 

For example, a student who is interested in the sciences might research an environmental issue, while a student who is interested in the humanities might do some historical research. 

Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS)

The CAS programme requires students to participate in creative, sporting and community service activities. This is essential for promoting personal development and social awareness. 

Through service activities, such as volunteering or social impact projects, students learn about empathy and their responsibility as citizens. It can also help them discover their interests outside the classroom.In summary, although it is true that it requires a high level of commitment and sustained hard work, the IB Diploma is undoubtedly one of the best educational investments you can make for your children.  A high quality programme, recognised around the world, it prepares students to face the world in every way, not only academically, but also personally and professionally.