What subjects can I study?

In addition to the three core elements of study (see the centre of the chart below), the further subjects available within the diploma are placed into six groups, as follows:

Group 1: Language A
Group 2: Language B
Group 3: Individuals & Society
Group 4: Experimental Sciences
Group 5: Mathematics
Group 6: Art & Electives

The chart below demonstrates most clearly the subjects available in each group:

In Group 6, students either choose one of the Arts subjects (Music, Visual Arts or Theatre Arts) or a selected second subject from one of the other groups (those subjects available for study in this group are listed in the above chart). Most subjects are available at both Standard Level (broadly equivalent to AS Level) and Higher Level (broadly equivalent to A2 Level) and students normally study three subjects at each level. Those subjects only available at Standard Level are marked with (S) in the chart above.

How is the course assessed?

There is a mixture of internal and external assessment. In subjects where there is coursework, this usually counts for 20% of the marks. There are written examinations in all subjects at the end of the course.

The IB is graded differently from A Levels. Subjects are graded from 1-7, with 4-7 counting as pass grades. Three further points can be allocated for the Extended Essay and for Theory of Knowledge (TOK). Therefore, the maximum points score available is 45.

CAS is not graded but is compulsory to achieve the diploma. You will need a minimum of 24 points to earn the diploma.

How is the course viewed by universities?

The IB is fully recognised by UCAS and by universities all over the world. British universities tend to ask students for between 28-36 IB points. Oxford and Cambridge often require 37-40 points. Remember that with the IB your options are kept open because of the range of subjects you have studied.

The UCAS tariff equates the top IB mark of 45 as the equivalent of six A Level passes at grade A.
Examples:
University of Birmingham - 30 points for Civil Engineering; 36 for Medicine, with specific targets for given subjects. Many other subjects lie in this range.
Aston University - equate 3 B grades at A level (which many of their courses ask for) with 32 points.
University of Warwick - Education 30 points, Law 38.

Endorsements:

"The International Baccalaureate is highly regarded by Admissions tutors at Cambridge University for entry to all subjects."
University of Cambridge Admissions

"The IB is just as respected as having AAA at A Level and we take many students who have studied the IB."
University of Birmingham, School of Law

UCAS is the first independent body to measure the educational achievement of students completing the IB Diploma Programme, in comparison to A levels.

"The IB seems to do everything for Higher Education that A Levels do, but that little bit more."
Current IB student, Richard Mennear

Please note: We are not accepting applications for the International Baccalaureate Diploma for entry in September 2009, but will be recruiting for September 2010.