International Baccalaureate: Everything You Need To Know

World Schools

We Asked Some of the Best International IB Schools in the World About What Makes The IB International Baccalaureate Stand Out! Let’s See What They Had To Say.
One of the most well-known and longest-running systems of international education is the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum. Founded in 1968 in Switzerland, the IB programme is now taught at more than 3,000 schools across more than 140 countries worldwide. The International Baccalaureate system is based on a student-centered approach to learning that is guided by experts and emphasizes both creativity and critical thinking skills.

The International Baccalaureate curriculum is one of the most popular education systems globally and is based on well-defined standards and holds students accountable for their work. The IB programme is highly transferable across countries and is recognized by top universities across the globe.

Schools from Madrid to Manila choose the International Baccalaureate Curriculum because they see it as the best choice for providing their students with a first-class education. Parents from around the world seek out IB schools to prepare their children for success at universities and beyond.

But for many parents trying to find the best school for their children, understanding the details of the International Baccalaureate Curriculum and what sets it apart from the other excellent international curricula can be a challenge.

This is why we brought together experts from some of the top international schools who use the International Baccalaureate Curriculum to help you understand what makes this curriculum unique and whether it may be the perfect fit for your child.

What Is the International Baccalaureate Curriculum and How Does It Work?

The IB organization was originally founded as a response to the lack of flexibility in the different school systems around the world. Today, the IB education system is recognized in more than 140 countries worldwide, and many of the major UK and North American universities hold students who have earned an IB diploma in a very positive light.

One of the first steps in selecting a great school for your family is understanding the curriculum they follow. There are several great options to choose from and each has amazing benefits for the students who study under that system.

Let’s take a look at what the International Baccalaureate curriculum looks like and how it works:

IB headquarter Geneva — Founded in 1968, the International Baccalaureate is is a nonprofit foundation headquartered in Geneva

The British International School Abu Dhabi

Community of learners

The International Baccalaureate, also known simply as the IB, is an internationally recognised programme for students aged 3-19. The IB programme aims not only to develop students’ knowledge in a range of subjects and disciplines, but also to help them become confident, self-motivated, and resilient global citizens. Through the IB, they’ll come to understand different perspectives and join a community of learners who want to make the world a better place. The IB inspires students to learn in a holistic way, with equal importance placed on many different yet interconnected subjects. Read more about the IB’s three core components are Theory of Knowledge (TOK), The Extended Essay and Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS) and six subject groups (Language and Literature, Language Acquisition, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, and Creative Arts) on our NAE website to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your child.

Hangzhou International School (HIS)

IB Learner Profile

An IB School uses the IB Learner Profile as a guide for developing student attributes so that we may nurture the ability of students to use a variety of necessary soft skills including communication, thinking, self-management, research, and social skills. Furthermore, we encourage mindful approaches to resilience, perseverance, inquiry, and being a principled and balanced individual. Students not only have a high level of academic and social skills but also a sincere appreciation and understanding of what it means to be global citizens and culturally competent. As a full continuum IB World School, HIS students in Early Years – Grade 5 follow the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP). Students in Grades 6-10 follow the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) and continue to the IB Diploma Programme (DP) in Grades 11-12. The goal of the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) is to build on a student’s natural curiosity and eagerness to acquire and master new information by developing a solid foundation of cognitive skills and learning habits through our inquiry-based approach to learning. The curriculum is transdisciplinary in nature. By the end of 5th grade, students advance to Upper School with not

Eastwood Global Online School

Well-rounded students

The International Baccalaureate curriculum is a globally recognized educational programme designed to develop well-rounded, inquiring, and knowledgeable students. It offers four programmes for different age groups: the Primary Years Programme (PYP) for ages 3-12, the Middle Years Programme (MYP) for ages 11-16, the Diploma Programme (DP) for ages 16-19, and the Career-related Programme (CP) for ages 16-19 with a career focus. The IB emphasizes a holistic approach, international mindedness, and inquiry-based learning, aiming to foster critical thinking, intercultural understanding, and personal growth. Assessment methods include both internal and external evaluations, and educators undergo specialized training.

What Are the Benefits of The International Baccalaureate?

There are many benefits of the International Baccalaureate Program for students, here are a few of the key benefits:

Focus Beyond the Classroom to Real-world situations
Holistic Approach to Education
Highly Recognized Credentials Accepted at Universities Around the World

Having seen how the International Baccalaureate curriculum is structured, it is important to understand how this system can benefit your child. Each system of education provides unique benefits to learners based on the explicit and implicit goals of the educational framework.There are many benefits of the International Baccalaureate Program for students, here are a few of the key benefits:

Focus Beyond the Classroom to Real-world situations

The International Baccalaureate programme provides an educational framework that is broad and balanced, conceptual and connected and that stimulates students to develop critical and analytical skills in order to apply them in ‘real life situation’. The IB learning strategy is based on real-world situations which not only makes learning more interesting but also helps students understand the relevance of what they are learning.

Holistic Approach to Education

The IB curriculum takes a broad view of what ‘education’ is about. Focusing not only on core competencies such as math or language skills, but also developing ‘soft skills’ such as problem solving, empathy, and an international mindset.

Highly Recognized Credentials Accepted at Universities Around the World

In an article featured in The Telegraph, John Claugthon, retiring Chief Master of King Edward’s School, sheds light on some of the reasons why schools all around the world choose to offer the IB Diploma Programme. He points to the breadth of the programme as one of the key motivations: “IB schools believe that the old dispensation to the narrow world of specialisation won’t do any more.” Many universities world-wide follow this line of thought, and an increasing number of them are revising their admissions criteria to attract more IB graduates.

At King's College London, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world, 20 percent of the university’s new undergraduates are IB students

Among other examples, Claugthon mentions King’s College, London, and points to the fact that 20 percent of the university’s new undergraduates are IB students. If you are looking for an education that stimulates and challenges you but also requires hard work, then the IB is the perfect place for you.

BEPS International School

The way you apply the IB curriculum

We at BEPS International School believe that a major difference between the IB Curriculum and other international curricula lies in the way you apply the IB curriculum. In our approach, our attention is heavily focused on offering meaningful and authentic learning to students. We place great emphasis on making sure students understand the importance of what they are learning and that they can link it and apply it to the outside world, into which they will eventually integrate. The IB Programmes have been developed for and by international schools, and it is very important to us that the curriculum we adopted for our Secondary school was in line with our vision to develop students into global citizens.

The British International School Abu Dhabi

The programme prepares students for life

The benefit of the IBDP over other post 16 routes is centered around the way the programme prepares students for life after school, both at university and beyond. While traditional qualifications often focus on developing a deeper understanding of a limited number of subjects, students in the Diploma Programme study a wide array of subject groups. This means that every student acquires a broad understanding, whilst the interdisciplinary nature of the programme enables students to cultivate well-rounded, global-minded observations. Having a broader grounding across multiple subject groups means students don’t limit themselves when it comes to applying for university places. When, throughout their time studying the Diploma Programme, a particular subject or area lights a passion within students and encourages them to want to pursue it in higher education, they can do just that and aren’t limited by taking a smaller number of subjects. The IB Diploma Programme also gives students transferable skills when it comes to university. The extended essay is an excellent blueprint for university essays and dissertations, in terms of independent research skills, the longer form of the essay

Eastwood Global Online School

Numerous benefits

The International Baccalaureate (IB) programme provides numerous benefits to students, educators, and schools, fostering a well-rounded and enriching educational experience. Key advantages include: – Global Recognition: IB qualifications are respected worldwide, giving students an edge in college admissions and careers. – Holistic Education: Focuses on academic, social, emotional, and physical development for a balanced lifestyle. – Critical Thinking: Encourages inquiry, independent research, and problem-solving. – International Awareness: Promotes global understanding and prepares students for a connected world. – Rigorous Academics: Challenges students to build strong work habits, time management, and a love for learning. – Language Skills: Emphasizes multilingualism and effective communication. – Community Service: Includes service components like CAS, fostering responsibility and civic engagement. – Personal Skills: Develops critical thinking, collaboration, and self-management. – Expert Teachers: Trained educators ensure high-quality instruction. – Teamwork: Encourages collaboration and interpersonal skills.

American Overseas School of Rome

Active, compassionate learners

IB programmes encourage students across the world to become active, compassionate and lifelong learners who understand that other people, with their differences, can also be right. At its heart, the IB curriculum is defined by the IB Learner Profile, a long-term, holistic vision of education. Studies have shown that IB students are more likely to go on to university, and perform better when they get there. They are also more likely to report greater satisfaction with their education. So if you’re looking for a programme that will challenge you academically and set you up for success in university and beyond, IB is the best choice.

Is the International Baccalaureate Curriculum Recognized Globally and Is It Transferable?

The International Baccalaureate curriculum is now taught in more than 3,000 schools across more than 140 countries worldwide. This global reach means that credentials earned at an IB school can be easily transferred to another school and are highly recognizable to universities around the globe.

Whether you plan to stay in one place for the remainder of your children’s education, or foresee your family moving several times before graduation, knowing that the education your child has received will be applicable, and transferable to other schools—and universities—is crucial to ensuring educational outcomes.

Let's take a look at the transferability of the International Baccalaureate curriculum:

Founded in 1968 in Switzerland, the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum and the IB programme is one of the most well-known and longest-running systems of international education. The International Baccalaureate curriculum is now taught in more than 3,000 schools across more than 140 countries worldwide. This global reach means that credentials earned at an IB school can be easily transferred to another school and are highly recognizable to universities around the globe.

BEPS International School

Developing skills and attitudes

The IB curriculum places a high importance on developing skills and attitudes. When students are regularly transferring from one school to another, the content (even within the same curriculum) may not always be the same, but the ability to think critically, to learn independently, to work together with others, to analyse research, to solve problems, and to take responsibility for their own learning are all transferable and allow easy transition from an IB school into any other school. For example, here at BEPS we have had students arrive from locations as diverse as Gabon, Hong Kong, and Colombia and have had leaving students successfully join IB schools in other countries. We also see students reintegrating into local schools in their home country. Our IB coordinator has worked with students who have gone on to higher education locally in Belgium, in the UK, and across Europe, Australia and Asia.

The British International School Abu Dhabi

A truly international qualification

Our IB school programme opens doors to the best universities in the world. Universally recognised as the world’s premier 16-18 qualification, the IBDP offers a broad choice of subjects and extraordinary learning experiences. Creating ambitious, socially responsible young people, the programme sets our students up for international success. Our Year 12 and 13 students study the IBDP. The programme is completely unique because it is not based on a particular national education system. Instead, it offers a breadth and balance that gives our students unrivalled choice, delivers once-in-a-lifetime learning experiences, and enables them to follow their talents and ambitions. Really importantly, the IBDP is a truly international qualification. Followed by thousands of students worldwide, it nurtures our students’ understanding of, and respect for, different cultures, ideas, and beliefs.

Eastwood Global Online School

Globally recognized

The International Baccalaureate curriculum is globally recognized and valued by universities and employers. Its rigorous academic standards and holistic approach prepare students well for higher education and careers. The curriculum’s consistency across countries allows for easy transfer between IB World Schools, making it a flexible and desirable option for internationally mobile families.

American Overseas School of Rome

+2 million students

In the spirit of fostering international understanding, the International Baccalaureate Program was created by educators in Geneva, Switzerland, and is currently used by more than 2 million students in over 150 countries. The IB curriculum aims to prepare its participants for university education worldwide and encourages them to question the world around them.

Which Schools Can Offer the International Baccalaureate Curriculum?

All schools interested in offering one or more International Baccalaureate (IB) Programmes must complete a two- and three-year authorization process. This way IBO is able to guarantee that each IB World School is held to the same high standard.

Part of what makes world-class curriculums so sought after is that they are trusted by parents, universities, and employers around the world. This trust is often based on strict accreditation and rules governing the way students are taught, meaning not every school can teach whichever curriculum they please. Let’s see which schools are able to teach the International Baccalaureate curriculum:

BEPS International School

Authorised only

Only school who are authorised are eligible to deliver any of the programmes. Candidate PYP and MYP schools can use the framework before authorisation but are not considered IB world schools and their students are not eligible to take part in external assessments. Schools must be authorised before offering the DP or CP.

The British International School Abu Dhabi

Rigorous authorization process

To offer the IB Curriculum, schools must successfully complete a rigorous authorization process that ensures it meets the IB’s high standards for academic rigor, teaching quality, and adherence to the IB’s mission and values.

Eastwood Global Online School

Authorized by IBO

Schools that can offer the International Baccalaureate curriculum must be authorized by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO). The authorization process ensures that schools meet the high standards required to implement the IB programmes effectively. Public, Private and International Schools are allowed to offer the IB curriculum

What to Look for In A Great International Baccalaureate School?

There are 3 Important Things to Consider When Looking for an IB School:

Accreditation
Resources
Global ranking

The popularity of many internationally recognised curriculums means that for each system, there are often several schools in a given region to choose from. Whether you have decided on the specific curriculum that is right for your child, or you are still in the process of deciding, it may be helpful to know whether the schools you are considering provide the best possible outcomes based on the curriculum they follow.This is what you should look for in an outstanding school following the International Baccalaureate curriculum:

1. Accreditations

An IB World School accreditation proves that a school has achieved the IBO high standard in education and is always trying to uphold this standard. Before anything else, check to see that the school has the appropriate accreditation. A true IB school has to be authorised for each IB programme it provides. If a school is authorized, it is a sign that it meets the high standards of the IB worldwide curriculum. You may find that not all IB schools offer all programmes, so a child who enters an IB school may be taking IB courses during certain years, but not others.

For example, a school may offer the British Curriculum up to Year 11 (Grade 10), followed by the IB Diploma in Years 12 and 13 (Grades 11 and 12). While the school is considered an IB school, if your child is not in Year 12 or 13, they are not learning in an IB programme.

2. Resources

All schools offering one or more IB Programmes have to be well-suited to offer an international education. An exemplary International Baccalaureate school will have systems in place for assessment, language placement, and curriculum planning for students.

Effective IB school are well resourced and offer many options to meet the diverse needs and interests of their students.

IB Students Interests STEM — Most IB schools offer many options to meet the diverse needs and interests of their students.

3. Global ranking

When choosing an IB school it might be useful to check its average point score for the last academic years and compare them to the global average score, and the average grade. When comparing IB Schools, look for rankings to see where they fall in relation to other schools and to the world average. The best IB World Schools have test scores the fall above the international or regional average.

BEPS International School

What you consider to be most important

When looking for any school it is important to identify what you consider to be most important in education. Are you focussed on results, on holistic development, a content focus, or skill development? You will find IB schools which range from the traditional to the innovative. Look around and find something that fits with you. Often when we plan a particular learning experience, there are multiple levels on which the students learn. One aim of BEPS Secondary School is to develop transferable skills through ‘hidden curriculum’ like collaboration and time management and make them explicit. We aim to create environments where learning is visible on multiple levels and for multiple goals; academic, personal, social, and emotional.

The British International School Abu Dhabi

IB’s core values

A high-quality International Baccalaureate (IB) school embodies the IB’s core values, which include encouraging students to be curious and inquisitive, maintain balance in their lives, demonstrate integrity and moral character, strive for knowledge and understanding, take calculated risks, communicate effectively, approach new ideas with an open mind, exhibit compassion and empathy towards others, and engage in reflective thinking. Additionally, an exceptional IB school provides a supportive and inclusive environment that enables all students to realize their full potential.

Eastwood Global Online School

IB Implementation

Authorization: Ensure the school is officially authorized by the IB Organization.
Students’ Experience: Look for comprehensive academic and emotional support, personalized instruction, and strong university and career counseling.
Faculty Training: Ensure teachers are well-trained in the IB curriculum and receive ongoing professional development.
IB Implementation: Assess how effectively the IB philosophy is integrated into school culture, including extracurricular activities, CAS, and community engagement.

Is the International Baccalaureate Curriculum Right for Your Child?

If your family is looking for a globally-focused education that will prepare your child for university and beyond, the International Baccalaureate Curriculum can be a great choice.

Above all—more important than transferability, more important than any specific factor—what truly matters is whether the curriculum is right for your child. While each child is unique and has specific needs and learning styles, there may be some common threads that make a curriculum better for your child.Here are some things to consider when deciding if the International Baccalaureate curriculum might be a good fit:

IB Expat Family — If your family is looking for a globally-focused education the International Baccalaureate Curriculum can be a great choice

The International Baccalaureate Curriculum is a fantastic choice for many students; however, the choice of which school and which curriculum is the best is a very personal one. In general, if your family is looking for a globally-focused education that will prepare your child for university and beyond, the International Baccalaureate Curriculum is a great choice.

BEPS International School

Highly subjective question

This is a highly subjective question but given that the IB curriculum prides itself on being inclusive and broad as well as holistic in nature we believe that all students will benefit from an IB education. IB students develop strong academic, social, and emotional characteristics. They are also likely to perform well academically – often better than students on other curricula.

The British International School Abu Dhabi

Perceived level of difficulty

While the IB Diploma Programme is widely recognised to be the most challenging course of study, universities worldwide respect the IB Diploma Programme as a prestigious and desirable qualification and look for this credential on applications. This demanding programme offers students the opportunity to go above and beyond in their education and study anywhere in the world. Additionally, the IB Diploma Programme offers students the potential to earn university credits. The perceived level of difficulty of the IB Programme will vary from student to student. The IB Programme is an academically challenging programme that is best suited for students who are willing to dedicate themselves to advanced courses, work well in a structured environment and can address areas of improvement.

Eastwood Global Online School

Personal and academic growth

The International Baccalaureate programme is ideal for students due to its holistic approach, emphasis on critical thinking, global perspective, academic rigor, and comprehensive support. It prepares students well for higher education and fosters both personal and academic growth.

College preparation and access to universities

IB is the best for college preparation. It offers an academically challenging and balanced programme of education that prepares students for success at university and life beyond.

American Overseas School of Rome

Prestigious universities

AOSR IB students have historically gained admission to prestigious universities in the United States, Europe, and worldwide. Because of its equipollence with the Italian “Maturità,” AOSR students also gain acceptance to top Italian universities!

Is IB worth it?

Is the International Baccalaureate (IB) program worth it? This is a question that parents and students ask themselves when making the decision to enroll in this challenging program.

With its strong reputation and proven track record, the IB is an excellent choice for any student seeking to prepare for success in higher education and beyond.

American Overseas School of Rome

Excellent habits as an adult

The IB program encourages students to think critically and challenge assumptions while developing research, interpersonal, and self-management skills. IB students learn to ask questions. This is an excellent habit as an adult—and it’s one employers look for in potential hires. Companies want employees who question their assumptions and can approach problems from different angles. Students learn how to plan, organize their time and prioritize tasks effectively.

Summary

The IB learning strategy is challenging and rewarding. Based on real-world situations which not only makes learning more interesting but also helps students understand the relevance of what they are learning.

In the end, although all major international curricula offer an excellent education for students, each curriculum has benefits and drawbacks that can affect whether it will be the right choice for your family and your child. If your family is looking for a globally-focused education the International Baccalaureate Curriculum can be a great choice.

What Schools Say

The British International School Abu Dhabi

IB’s core values

American Overseas School of Rome

Active, compassionate learners

Eastwood Global Online School

IB Implementation

Authorization: Ensure the school is officially authorized by the IB Organization.
Students’ Experience: Look for comprehensive academic and emotional support, personalized instruction, and strong university and career counseling.
Faculty Training: Ensure teachers are well-trained in the IB curriculum and receive ongoing professional development.
IB Implementation: Assess how effectively the IB philosophy is integrated into school culture, including extracurricular activities, CAS, and community engagement.