Janice Lozano
The International Baccalaureate (IB) is a globally-recognised educational framework that prepares students for university and their future careers. The IB programme is designed to develop well-rounded individuals with strong academic, social and emotional characteristics, and transferable skills such as critical thinking, creativity, and resilience. IB students are encouraged to take ownership of their learning and develop future-ready skills to help them thrive in a rapidly changing world. The programme's unique approach to education gives students a competitive edge in the university admissions process, and IB graduates are often regarded as some of the highest performers in their areas of study. With its focus on interdisciplinary learning, independent thinking, and oral presentations, the IB effectively prepares students for the rigours of university-level academics.
What You'll Learn
IB students' performance at university
IB students are given a unique, challenging, and diverse education that encourages them to think critically, drive their own learning, and develop strong academic, social, and emotional characteristics. The IB programme's focus on transferable, future-ready skills and internationally recognized qualifications helps students gain admission to some of the highest-ranking universities worldwide.
IB students are well-prepared for university and often perform better than their peers from non-IB schools. Research suggests that they are internationally minded, creative, and critical thinkers. For instance, students in the Primary Years Programme (PYP) exhibit higher levels of well-being compared to non-PYP students, while Middle Years Programme (MYP) students outperform their non-IB peers in the International Schools' Assessment (ISA) areas. Furthermore, Diploma Programme (DP) and Career-related Programme (CP) students demonstrate higher levels of global mindedness compared to their peers in six countries worldwide.
The IB programme's emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving, and cultural awareness through the development of a second language equips students with the skills necessary to engage with people in an increasingly globalized and rapidly changing world. The programme's rigorous academic preparation, interdisciplinary nature, and emphasis on independent thinking mirror the demands of university-level courses.
Additionally, the IB's approach to teaching, with its focus on learning how to learn, empowers students to become self-regulated learners who understand the importance of both the "how" and "why" of learning, rather than solely focusing on knowledge acquisition. This approach helps IB students develop the skills and attributes needed to excel in their chosen careers and lead meaningful lives.
Overall, IB students are well-prepared for the challenges of university life and beyond, with the skills and mindset to succeed in their academic pursuits and make a positive impact in a complex and ever-changing global landscape.
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University admission processes for IB students
The International Baccalaureate (IB) is a globally-recognised qualification that prepares students for university and life beyond. IB students are encouraged to develop critical thinking and research skills, which are essential for academic success. The IB's approach to learning focuses on the "how" and "why" of learning, empowering students to take ownership of their education and develop valuable transferable skills.
IB World Schools, which are authorised to deliver IB programmes, must undergo a rigorous "authorisation" process to ensure they meet the IB's programme standards and practices. This process helps schools adopt the IB's philosophy and values, which centre around developing inquiring, knowledgeable, and caring young people who can contribute to a more peaceful world.
When it comes to university admissions, IB students can apply to any university they choose. The IB, however, collaborates with certain universities to establish recognition policies outlining the requirements for IB students. While universities without published recognition policies may still admit students with IB credentials, having an IB recognition policy does not guarantee admission. To facilitate the application process, the IB provides country-specific guides for students, especially those applying to universities outside their home country.
The IB also supports students' transition to higher education by sending transcripts to six higher education institutions per student. Additionally, the IB's global alumni network connects graduates with each other and offers opportunities to get involved in IB projects and share their experiences.
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IB students' transition to university
The transition from high school to university is a challenging period for most students. However, students from the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme are better equipped to navigate this change. The IB programme is designed to develop inquiring, knowledgeable, and confident young people. The programme empowers students to take ownership of their learning and develop future-ready skills to thrive in a dynamic world.
IB students are encouraged to think critically, solve complex problems, and drive their learning. They are also more culturally aware and able to engage with people from diverse backgrounds. This cultural awareness is partly due to the development of a second language, which is a core part of the IB curriculum. The IB's approach to learning and teaching allows students to develop transferable and lifelong skills such as international-mindedness, creativity, agency, and resilience.
The IB programme offers four educational programmes with detailed and developmentally appropriate curriculum frameworks. These programmes provide a competitive edge to students, helping them gain admission to top universities and perform better in their careers. The IB's unique theory of knowledge (TOK) course teaches students about the nature of knowledge and builds critical thinking skills. The IB's approaches to learning, which include thinking, research, communication, social, and self-management skills, further prepare students for the transition to university.
IB students are well-prepared for the rigours of university life and often perform better academically than their peers. The IB's focus on developing well-rounded individuals with strong academic, social, and emotional characteristics sets its students up for success in higher education and beyond.
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IB students' approach to learning
The International Baccalaureate (IB) is a globally-recognised educational framework that empowers students to take ownership of their learning and develop skills to help them thrive in a rapidly changing world. The IB approach to learning is centred around five interrelated skills: thinking, research, communication, social, and self-management.
IB students are encouraged to be critical and creative thinkers, challenging assumptions and considering both local and global contexts. They are taught to pursue their aspirations and develop the determination to achieve them. The programme also emphasises the importance of learning across disciplines and developing strong research skills, which are proven to benefit students in higher education.
Communication skills are another key aspect of the IB approach, with a focus on both written and oral communication, as well as effective listening and argument formulation. IB students are also encouraged to form and maintain positive relationships, develop conflict resolution skills, and become culturally aware through the development of a second language.
The IB approach to learning also emphasises self-management skills, including organisational abilities such as time management and task management, as well as affective skills like managing one's state of mind and motivation. Students are encouraged to take responsibility for their own learning and to understand how knowledge is constructed, underpinned by the unique Theory of Knowledge (TOK) course.
Overall, the IB approach to learning aims to develop well-rounded individuals who possess the knowledge, skills, and sense of purpose needed to excel in their chosen careers and contribute to making the world a better place.
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IB students' personal development
The International Baccalaureate (IB) is a globally-recognised educational programme that aims to develop well-rounded individuals who are prepared for the challenges of today's world. The IB approach to learning is centred around empowering students to take ownership of their education and become self-regulated learners. This is achieved through the development of several key skills and attributes that promote personal growth and academic success.
One of the key focuses of the IB programme is to encourage critical thinking and independent learning. IB students are taught to question, analyse, and think creatively, enabling them to solve complex problems and make informed decisions. This approach fosters a sense of curiosity and motivation, driving students to actively engage with their education and take responsibility for their own learning journey. The development of these thinking skills is underpinned by the unique Theory of Knowledge (TOK) course, which explores the nature of knowledge and builds critical thinking abilities.
In addition to academic development, the IB programme also emphasises the importance of social and emotional growth. Students are encouraged to form and maintain positive relationships, develop effective communication skills, and resolve conflicts. The IB learner profile promotes the importance of curiosity, compassion, and respect, ensuring that students focus not only on academic knowledge but also on their social and emotional well-being. This holistic approach to education helps students develop the soft skills necessary for successful personal and professional relationships.
Another key aspect of IB education is its emphasis on cultural awareness and international mindedness. By learning a second language and engaging with diverse perspectives, IB students become more culturally sensitive and aware of global issues. This aspect of the programme equips students with the skills to navigate an increasingly globalised and interconnected world, fostering an understanding and appreciation of different cultures and perspectives.
The IB programme also promotes student engagement in extracurricular activities, athletics, or creative pursuits. Students are encouraged to pursue their passions and interests outside of the classroom, contributing to their overall development and well-being. This holistic approach ensures that IB students develop a range of transferable skills that can be applied in various contexts, both during and after their university years.
Overall, the IB programme's focus on critical thinking, cultural awareness, and personal development equips students with the tools necessary to succeed in university and beyond. By encouraging students to take ownership of their learning and fostering a well-rounded skill set, the IB programme promotes academic excellence, social and emotional intelligence, and the ability to thrive in a diverse and ever-changing world.
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Frequently asked questions
An IB student is a student at an IB World School who is taking at least one IB programme or course. IB World Schools are schools that have been authorized to deliver IB courses, and they must meet the requirements of the IB's programme standards and practices.
IB students develop strong academic, social, and emotional characteristics, and they are likely to perform well academically, often better than students on other curricula. The IB programme equips students with future-ready skills and internationally recognized qualifications, giving them a competitive edge when applying to universities and careers of their choice.
IB students are regarded as some of the highest performers in their areas of study, and they are more likely to enrol in some of the most selective universities worldwide. The IB programme provides academic preparation for college, with interdisciplinary courses that require independent thinking and assignments such as oral presentations and original research, which are similar to those in university courses.
The IB programme was designed as a diploma program, while the AP program was created around advanced classes. IB curricula are stricter for teachers, and IB Higher Level courses are often considered more difficult than AP courses. IB exams are also more expensive than AP tests and contain more writing and application of ideas.
To earn an IB Diploma, you must attend an IB-approved school, take classes in the six subject groups, pass the IB exams, and complete three additional core requirements: the Extended Essay, the Theory of Knowledge class, and the Creativity, Activity, Service project.
