International Baccalaureate: your route to university

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma is a highly regarded pre-university qualification with worldwide recognition. It provides a pathway to the best universities around the world.

Find out what UK universities think of the IB
Find out what our students think of the IB

Individual attention, intensive study

As with all our courses we ensure that IB class sizes remain small. The Diploma demands a high level of commitment from students so we provide specialist staff to work alongside every student throughout the course.

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 provides a pathway to the best universities around the world.

Subjects and course structure

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 Spanish, at beginner level
• Humanities – History, Economics, Business Studies or IT in a Global Society
• Science – Biology, Chemistry or Physics
• Mathematics or Maths Studies
• The Arts – Film or Visual Arts

Plus:

• Theory of knowledge – a practical approach to philosophy
• 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.

Back to top

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 of developing skills and knowledge across a broad curriculum."

What our students say

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

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

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

Back to top