
The International Baccalaureate (IB) is a globally recognised academic programme for students aged 16-19, offered in over 140 countries and in five languages. The programme is an alternative to A-levels and is considered more challenging, requiring students to take six subjects from six subject groups. Three of these subjects are studied at a higher level, while the remaining three are taken at a standard level. Students can choose from a variety of subjects, including studies in language and literature, language acquisition, individuals and societies, sciences, mathematics, and the arts. In addition to these six subjects, students must also complete the three core requirements: CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service), TOK (Theory of Knowledge), and the EE (Extended Essay).
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of subjects | Six, chosen from six subject groups |
| Number of subjects taken at a higher level | Three or four |
| Number of subjects taken at a standard level | Remaining subjects |
| Number of academic courses | Between two and four |
| Number of countries where it is taught | 140+ |
| Number of students | 1.95 million+ |
| Number of languages it is taught in | Five |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn

Students take a minimum of three and a maximum of six subjects
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme is a globally recognised academic qualification for students aged 16-19. It is taught in schools in over 140 countries and is available in five languages: Chinese, English, French, German, and Spanish.
Students taking the IB Diploma Programme will study a minimum of three and a maximum of six subjects, chosen from six subject groups. These subject groups are:
- Studies in language and literature
- Language acquisition
- Individuals and societies
- Sciences
- Mathematics
- The arts
Students will take some subjects at a higher level (HL) and some at a standard level (SL). The exact number of subjects taken at each level can vary, but generally, a minimum of three subjects will be studied at HL, and the remaining subjects will be studied at SL.
In addition to the six subjects, students must also complete three core requirements: Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS); Theory of Knowledge (TOK); and the Extended Essay (EE). These core components aim to broaden students' educational experience and challenge them to apply their knowledge and skills in different ways.
When choosing their IB subjects, students can seek guidance from their academic advisors to ensure they select the right combination of subjects for their chosen pathway.
Internships in Malaysia: Are Foreign Students Eligible?
You may want to see also
Explore related products

Three subjects must be studied at a higher level
The International Baccalaureate (IB) is a global leader in international education, offering four educational programmes to over 1.95 million students aged 3 to 19 across the globe. The IB is taught in schools in over 140 countries, in one of five languages: Chinese, English, French, German, or Spanish.
The IB Diploma Programme (DP) curriculum sets out the requirements for studying the DP. The curriculum is made up of the DP core and six subject groups. Students pick one subject per study area from the six following areas:
- Studies in language and literature
- Language acquisition
- Individuals and societies
- Sciences
- Mathematics
- The arts
Students will take some subjects at a higher level (HL) and some at a standard level (SL). Each student takes a minimum of three and a maximum of four subjects at a higher level. These three subjects are studied in greater depth and breadth than the remaining subjects, which are studied at a standard level.
The choice of subjects is flexible, and students can choose from a wide range of options within each subject group. This allows students to pursue their interests and passions while gaining a well-rounded education. The IB provides course selection guidance to help students make informed decisions about their subject choices.
International Students: Air Force Eligibility
You may want to see also
Explore related products
$31.4 $35.95

The remaining subjects are studied at a standard level
The International Baccalaureate (IB) is a globally recognised academic programme for students aged 16-19. It is taught in over 140 countries and offers a competitive alternative to A-levels, providing a pathway to the world's best universities. The IB Diploma Programme allows students to study six subjects chosen from six subject groups, including:
- Studies in language and literature.
- Language acquisition.
- Individuals and societies.
- Sciences.
- Mathematics.
- The arts.
Students will take some subjects at a higher level (HL) and some at a standard level (SL). The number of higher-level subjects typically ranges from a minimum of three to a maximum of four, with the remaining subjects studied at a standard level. This means that students will take either three or four subjects at a higher level, depending on their preferences and the curriculum offered by their educational institution.
The standard-level subjects provide a solid foundation for students to broaden their educational experience and develop essential skills. While these subjects may not be as specialised or in-depth as the higher-level ones, they still contribute significantly to the student's overall knowledge and understanding. The standard level encourages students to apply their knowledge and skills in a more general context, fostering a well-rounded education.
The specific subjects studied at the standard level can vary depending on the student's interests and the school's offerings. For example, a student may choose to study Mathematics at a standard level while taking English Literature at a higher level. This flexibility allows students to tailor their education to their strengths and future aspirations.
In addition to the six chosen subjects, IB students must also complete the three core requirements: CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service), TOK (Theory of Knowledge), and the EE (Extended Essay). These core elements enhance the student's critical thinking, creativity, and self-reflection skills, further enriching their educational journey.
ACT for International Students: Is It Possible?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
$49.9 $54.25

Six subjects, one from each of the six subject groups
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) curriculum consists of six subject groups, from which students choose one subject from each group. These groups are:
- Studies in language and literature: This group cultivates a deep understanding of literary traditions, critical thinking, and textual analysis. It includes courses such as Language A: Literature, where students analyze literary texts such as novels, poetry, drama, and non-fiction from diverse cultures and periods. Alternatively, students can opt for Language A: Language and Literature, which covers a broader range of literary and non-literary texts, helping them understand how language shapes meaning in different contexts.
- Language acquisition: This subject group focuses on developing students' language skills and their understanding of different cultures.
- Individuals and societies: This group likely covers subjects such as history, psychology, and economics, though specific course details are not readily available.
- Sciences: Students can choose from a variety of science subjects, including Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. These courses aim to develop scientific literacy and a deep understanding of the natural world, encouraging critical thinking and exploration of scientific principles.
- Mathematics: This group covers mathematical concepts, though specific course details are not readily available.
- The arts: This group includes subjects such as Art and Music, though students can choose an additional subject from Groups 1-5 if they are less inclined towards the arts.
Students will take some subjects at a higher level (HL) and others at a standard level (SL). They must also fulfill three core requirements: CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service), TOK (Theory of Knowledge), and the EE (Extended Essay). The IB curriculum aims to provide a well-rounded education that challenges students to apply their knowledge and skills across diverse disciplines.
Hiring International Students: US Companies Not Ready?
You may want to see also
Explore related products

Students can choose a variety of subject options
The International Baccalaureate (IB) is a global leader in international education, developing inquiring, knowledgeable, and confident young people. The IB offers four educational programmes to over 1.95 million students aged 3 to 19 across the globe. Each of the four programmes provides a detailed curriculum framework that is balanced and appropriate to every student's age.
The IB Diploma Programme (DP) curriculum sets out the requirements for studying the DP. The curriculum is made up of the DP core and six subject groups. Students pick one subject per study area from the six following areas. These six topics are then divided into three higher-level subjects and three standard-level subjects.
Students can choose from a variety of subject options. The six subject groups are:
- Studies in language and literature: Students can choose from a variety of languages, including English, French, Spanish, and German.
- Language acquisition: Students can learn a new language or improve their existing language skills.
- Individuals and societies: This group includes subjects such as history, geography, and psychology.
- Sciences: Students can choose from a range of scientific disciplines, including biology, chemistry, and physics.
- Mathematics: This group covers a range of mathematical topics, from basic arithmetic to more advanced concepts.
- The arts: Students can explore their creative side through subjects such as visual arts, music, or theatre.
In addition to these six subjects, students must also fulfill three core requirements: CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service), TOK (Theory of Knowledge), and the EE (Extended Essay). Students have the flexibility to choose an additional subject from one of the other groups instead of a Group 6 subject, such as Art or Music.
Student Intern Teaching: California's Requirements
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Students take between two and four academic courses as part of the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme.
Students take subjects from six subject groups. They take three subjects at a higher level and three at a standard level.
The six subject groups are: studies in language and literature; language acquisition; individuals and societies; sciences; mathematics; and the arts.
Yes, students can choose subjects from the six subject groups. They can also take a vocational qualification, which is a more practical, 'hands-on' course.
Students complete assessments in their chosen subjects and also participate in Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS) activities. They also complete an extended essay and follow a theory of knowledge (TOK) course.














![How to Survive in the IB Diploma Program: The Definitive Guide to Success in the International Baccalaureate [Ib]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/613K967325L._AC_UY218_.jpg)






















![45 Tips, Tricks, and Secrets for the Successful International Baccalaureate [IB] Student](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61+VA7szGWL._AC_UY218_.jpg)


