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International Baccalaureate
International Baccalaureate (IB)
The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) is an
exciting development for City and Islington Sixth Form
College.
What is the IBDP?
Established over 30 years ago, the IBDP is offered in 190
schools and colleges in the UK and in over 700 schools and colleges
internationally. It is an alternative to the A Level route to
university; one that is highly valued and internationally
recognised. The IBDP will give you a broad and balanced education
leading to a prestigious, international qualification.
What are the Entry Requirements?
These are the same as for a 4 AS/A-level programme. You need to
have passed at least 4 GCSE subjects at grade B or above and at
least 2 more at C or above. These subjects must include English,
Maths and a Science.
Why would I choose the IBDP?
Because you want to maintain a broad programme of education,
continuing with 6 rather than 4 subjects.
This doesn’t mean you have to be good at everything – you choose
3 subjects to study at Higher Level, 3 at Standard level. Some
subjects you can start as a beginner – languages, for example. If
you are not sure you want to carry on with Maths you will probably
do Maths Studies which is less specialised.
Because you like the idea of a course that is all joined up – a
complete programme that encourages you to make links between the
subjects you are studying as well as incorporating and rewarding
additional elements such as voluntary service and creative
activities.
Because you want to study on a programme that encourages you to
think globally. The IBDP is studied and recognised all over the
world. The different parts of the programme encourage you to see
yourself as part of an international as well as a local
community.
Because you prefer to have exams at the end of a two year
programme rather than take public exams at the end of your first
year.
What will I Study?
The IBDP is a complete 2 year programme, giving you a choice of
subjects within a structure that ensures a broad, rigorous
education. It will prepare you for University and the global
society of the 21st century. It is particularly suited to those who
enjoy studying a wide range of subjects, are organised and enjoy
other activities as well as academic study.
You choose 6 subjects, one from each group. It will be possible
to study 2 sciences or 2 humanities subjects. You choose to study 3
of your subjects at Higher Level, 3 at Standard Level. In addition,
all students participate in the core elements:
1 Extended essay: A 4,000 word investigation of
a topic chosen by you. This enables you to develop research and
writing skills in preparation for university study.
2 Theory of knowledge (TOK): The
interdisciplinary TOK course encourages you to develop critical
thinking skills and enables you to understand the different kinds
of knowledge in different subjects. Again, this is excellent
preparation for university.
3 Creativity, action, service (CAS):
Participation in creative activities, sports and voluntary service.
This is an essential part of the course, not an optional extra. It
develops your awareness and appreciation of life outside
studying.
You will also attend a weekly tutorial session with a personal
tutor who will support your learning and progress throughout the
two years of the course.
How will I be assessed?
There are external IB examinations in May of the second year of
the course. Results are published in early July. In most subjects
there is assessed coursework, oral as well as written. Theory of
Knowledge is assessed by an externally marked essay. The maximum
diploma score is 45 points. You need 24 points to pass the diploma.
Each subject has a maximum score of 7 points. 3 additional points
are awarded for the assessed core elements.
How much does the course cost?
For Home students (i.e. from the UK and other European Union
countries) between 16 and 18 years of age, this course is free of
charge.
For International students (i.e. from outside the European
Union), the cost of the course is £7,000 p.a. In addition, there
will be exam fees of approximately £200 p.a.
How do I apply?
On the same application form as for any other course. You may
want to apply for A levels as well as the IBDP if you are uncertain
about which route will suit you best. As the IBDP is a new course,
all applicants will have an individual interview with an IB
specialist to ensure that your choice is the best one for you and
for your plans for University and beyond.
Download an Application Form [PDF]
Download an Application Form
[Word]
More information
For more information, have a look at our IB guide [PDF] or talk to out
Course Information Unit.