The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme is a gateway to great opportunities for your child. If your child dreams of exploring opportunities abroad, this programme serves as a bridge to the right international universities or even the top colleges in India. In essence, its importance extends well beyond academics to inculcate inquiry-based learning, encourage self-directed education and also instil values. Here is a quick guide to the IBDP course that will help you decide if this is the right fit for your child.
What is the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP)?
‘What is IBDP?’ is this question plaguing your mind? Well, let us help you understand everything there is to this programme. This programme, offered by the International Baccalaureate (IB), is designed for students aged 16-19 and prepares them for university life and beyond. The IBDP curriculum is well-rounded, covering six subject groups through which students learn to think critically, reflect on their learning, complete an in-depth research project, and engage in meaningful community service. Here at Glendale Academy, one of the very few IBDP schools in Hyderabad, we offer an excellent programme that prepares your child for their future.
IBDP at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
| Age Group | 16-19 years |
| International Baccalaureate Eligibility | Completion of Grade 10 or equivalent |
| Subject Groups | Studies in Language and Literature, Sciences, Language Acquisition, Individuals and Societies, Mathematics, Arts, |
| DP Core components | Theory of Knowledge (TOK) Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) Extended Essay |
| Course Duration | 2 years |
| Learning Focus | Conceptual understanding, critical thinking, research skills, global perspective, and independent learning |
How does the IB Diploma Programme curriculum work?
So, you must be wondering what the IB curriculum entails and what the IB Diploma Programme subjects are. Well, the programme consists of six subject groups, namely Studies in Language and Literature, Sciences, Language Acquisition, Individuals and Societies, Mathematics, and Arts. Students have to choose three Higher Level (HL) subjects and three Standard Level (SL) subjects. From these subject groups, your child can choose their subjects based on their career aspirations. For additional guidance, encourage them to approach the school counsellor for support and advice. To see the full list of DP subjects and instruction hours, click here.
Apart from these subject groups, there are three core subjects, mandatory for all the students, that you need to be aware of:
Theory of Knowledge (TOK)
As a core component of DP, it encourages students to reflect on the nature of the knowledge they have acquired and challenge what they know. They also learn to analyse different real-world scenarios and apply their learning across different contexts. Their assessment involves both internal assessment, being the Theory of Knowledge exhibition and the external assessment, being a Theory of Knowledge Essay.
Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)
CAS calls for students to partake in a creativity, activity or a service project. They can choose any one of these aspects or a combination of all three. There are no prescribed projects; students can pick one that they feel comfortable with. For instance, setting up an art installation or a gallery can be one such activity.
Extended Essay
It is a 4,000-word independent research piece on a topic of the students’ choice. This helps them prepare for their undergraduate research, gives them an opportunity to explore and choose a topic, form a research question, and communicate their ideas.
IB Diploma Programme vs CBSE
Both curricula are unique in their own ways. The choice ultimately comes down to what your child wants. If they want to pursue higher education abroad, IBDP provides the tools to do so; if they want to continue their higher education in India and prepare for competitive exams, CBSE would be the ideal choice. Glendale Academy, being one of the best IB schools in Hyderabad, offers both curricula. Here is a quick comparison table between the two.
| Aspect | IBDP | CBSE |
| Working principle | Inquiry-based, interdisciplinary, global perspectives | Content mastery, Exam-focused, National Standards |
| Subject | 6 subjects (3 Higher Level + 3 Standard Level), Core subjects (TOK + CAS + Extended Essay) | Fixed Streams ( Science/Commerce/Arts), 5-6 core subjects |
| Assessment | Internal and external exams, essays, 24/45 pass ( Grading scale : 1-7 per subject) | Primarily board exams (Theory and Practicals), Percentage/CGPA based |
| Recognition | Global Universities | Strong in India for JEE/NEET, Limited Abroad |
| Strengths | Develops research abilities, Time management, global perspective | Prepares you for competitve exams, Inculcates regional perspectives |
| Schools | ~ 177 schools | 27,000+ schools |
How is the IB Diploma Programme Assessed and Graded?
You may be curious as to how the IB education system, especially the IBDP programme, measures your child’s progress and achievement. Well, they are assessed through a mix of final exams and coursework completed over two years.
Most subjects include a written examination at the end of the course, which is marked externally, alongside internally assessed work such as projects, investigations, or oral presentations, which are marked by the teachers and the IB. In addition to the six subjects, students complete an extended essay and Theory of Knowledge assignment as part of their core subjects, and these are graded. Also, they are required to complete a CAS Activity, which is not graded. The subjects, apart from the core subjects, are marked on a grade-point scale of 7, with additional points available for the Extended Essay and Theory of Knowledge assignments, for a total of 45 points. You can refer to this IB guide for more details.
Should you choose the IB Diploma Programme for your child?
The answer to the above question is an absolute YES! If you are looking for a programme that provides a well-rounded and internationally recognised education that goes well beyond textbooks and examinations. Then this programme is definitely a compelling choice.
We hope this mini-guide helps you decide whether the IB Diploma Programme is the right choice for your young one. As one of the best IB schools in Hyderabad, Glendale Academy offers an enriching IBDP curriculum. If you want to learn more about our curricula and facilities, visit our website.
