IB Diploma Programme

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme was established in 1968 and is currently offered at over 3,500 schools in more than 150 countries. It was designed to provide a challenging, internationally minded education that develops the intellectual, personal, emotional, and social skills needed for students to thrive in a globalized world.

The curriculum requires students to study six subjects, one from each of the six subject groups: Studies in Language and Literature, Language Acquisition, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, and The Arts (or an additional subject from groups 1-5). Three subjects must be taken at Higher Level (240 hours) and three at Standard Level (150 hours). This structure ensures both specialization and breadth.

In addition to the six subjects, all diploma candidates complete three core requirements. Theory of Knowledge (TOK) is a course that explores the nature of knowledge across disciplines. The Extended Essay (EE) is a 4,000-word independent research paper. Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) requires participation in creative, physical, and community-oriented experiences throughout the programme.

The maximum diploma score is 45 points: 7 points per subject (maximum 42 from six subjects) plus up to 3 bonus points from the TOK and EE combination. The minimum score for diploma award is 24 points, subject to certain conditions. The average diploma score globally is approximately 30 points. Students can also pursue individual IB subject certificates without committing to the full diploma. The IB Diploma is widely regarded as excellent preparation for university study, and many institutions grant advanced standing or course credit for strong IB results.