5 Things You Should Know About the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP)
1. International Baccalaureate’s pre-university programme
The IBDP is a globally recognised pre-university programme which is designed for students aged 16 to 19. It has an academically challenging curriculum which expands students’ knowledge, taps into students’ potential and fosters international understanding. As of February 2018, 3,182 international schools offer the IBDP in 153 countries.
2. Built around six subject groups
IBDP students are required to complete a course in each of the six subject groups. The subject groups consist of Studies in Language and literature, Language acquisition, Individuals and societies, Sciences, Mathematics and Arts. Students have the opportunity to learn a new language, expand their knowledge on global issues, and sharpen their mathematical and science skills. IBDP students are also exposed to the importance of performing arts and literature.
3. Assessed internally and externally
The IBDP has a balanced assessment method. Students are graded during written examinations as well as internal assessments such as field work and performances. Each course is graded from 1 to 7, 7 being the highest. A diploma is granted to students who earn at least 24 points in addition to completing the IBDP’s three core elements.
4. Made up of three core elements
In addition to studying six courses, students need to successfully complete three core elements in the IBDP in order to graduate. Firstly, students reflect on the nature of knowledge through an oral presentation and a 1,600-word essay in Theory of Knowledge. Next, students need to independently research a topic which culminates in the Extended Essay, which is 4,000 words long. Lastly, students need to take part in projects in the areas of Creativity, Activity and Service.
5. Prepares students for university life
IBDP graduates are well-prepared to tackle the obstacles of university life and beyond. They have experience juggling demanding academic workloads and extracurricular activities, have good time management skills and excel academically. The IBDP also allows students to grow physically, intellectually, emotionally and ethically. Students also come out of the course with an international mind-set and a global perspective.
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