International Baccalaureate: your route to university

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The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma is designed for motivated, internationally-minded students who want to develop their independent learning skills.

With worldwide recognition and respect, the IB Diploma provides a pathway to the best universities around the world.

Find out what UK universities think of the IB

As an IB college, we expect our students to meet the demands of an IB Diploma. Students have to demonstrate a high level of commitment combined with a desire to develop and embody the concept of being a ‘world-citizen’.

The IB programme delivers a broad range of subjects, including extra-curricular activities, taught in small classes.  We guarantee this high standard so students can confidently progress to university as mature, well-rounded individuals.

Find out more about the support we give to students making university applications.

Find out what our students think of the IB

Admired by the top Universities

Because of the distinctive ethos of the IB Diploma, it is particularly well regarded by the top universities. The IB is developed around several central beliefs about the role of education, and sets out to:

• prepare students for further academic study at a top university 
• develop citizens of the world in relation to culture, language and learning to live together 
• build and reinforce students’ sense of identity and cultural awareness 
• foster students’ recognition and development of universal human values.

Find out more about course subjects and structure

Is the IB for me?

• The average age of students starting their IB Diploma is 16. 
• It is ideal for students who are strong in a range of subject disciplines and don’t want to specialise too early. 
• It is a challenging course for highly motivated students. 
• It promotes the notion of ‘world-student’
• It provides a pathway to the best universities around the world.

Subjects and course structure

Students select six core academic subjects*: three at Higher level; three at Standard level.

• The student’s first language – based on literature
• A second language – English or beginner level Spanish, Chinese or French
• Humanities – History, Economics, Business Studies or Geography
• Science – Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Environmental Systems
• Mathematics or Maths Studies
• The Arts – Theatre or Visual Arts (alternatively you can study another subject from the list above)

Plus:

• Theory of knowledge – an introduction to the critical evaluation of knowledge
• Extended essay – based on a personal theme, up to 4,000 words
• Creativity, action and service – a programme of arts, sports and community service

* Entry to certain degree programmes, such as Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, Engineering and Law require specific combinations of subjects. The College is pleased to advise on subject choice.

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What the universities say

Cambridge University: "Universities recognise that the IB is a package which goes beyond the academic disciplines...they also recognise the considerable achievement of IB students."

Imperial College, London: "Students who study the IB are very much welcomed and often show qualities of breadth and motivation as well as academic ability."

University College London (UCL): "UCL is very happy to endorse the IB as it is a good qualification which provides students with the opportunity to develop skills and knowledge across a broad curriculum."

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What our students say

“IB is very challenging, but I think it supports your personality, especially by the subject CAS (Creativity, Action, Service). Moreover, you meet so many different people from different countries and it lets you think about very interesting topics, which are important for your daily life. All in all, I can say that IB is a very good programme and that it prepares me very well for my future.” - Raphaela Altenbernd, Germany

“The IB Course is good because it is challenging, offers a great multicultural experience and is time intensive.” - Benjamin Weisenburger, Germany

"A challenging and demanding course which results in a mature mind." - Brijal Patel, India

"I can improve my skills, be more creative and active, and provide a service for people who need it." - Anara Khamitova, Russia

"It means discovering new areas and understanding issues which I hadn't thought about before." - Johannes Butscher, Germany

Watch more students > >

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