A rising popular alternative to the curriculums in India is the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP).
To give an overview about the International Baccalaureate Program, it is a rigorous and an internationally recognized program that one studies to get into universities. This program additionally develops intellectual, emotional, social, and personal skills needed to live, learn and work in a rapidly globalizing world.
Therefore, to earn an IB Diploma, you have to go to an IB-approved school which is also called an IB World School. This includes studying 6 subjects, passing its exams, and completing the additional 3 core components.
Students have the freedom to seek out what truly interests and inspires them. IB provides the opportunity for students to discover their passion by studying a wide range of subjects, and not compelled to specialize.
Three of the six subjects must be studied at Higher Level, while the other three can be studied at Standard Level.
Group 1: consists of Language and Literature in which subjects are usually taken in the students’ native language and can focus on literature alone or a combination of both.
Group 2: consists of Language Acquisition where this is a second language for students as it is normally a modern language.
Group 3: consists of Individuals and Societies. These subjects involve the humanities as they include Global Politics, Business Management, Economics, History, Philosophy, Geography, Social and Cultural Anthropology, World Religion, and more.
Group 4: is the Sciences such as Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Computer Science.
Group 5: includes Mathematics Studies, Mathematics, and Further Mathematics.
Lastly, Group 6: consists of The Arts: Music, Theatre, Dance, Film, and Visual Arts.
Practice isn’t the thing you do once you’re good. It’s the thing you do that makes you good. – Malcolm Gladwell
Firstly, you need to be qualified in terms of age to take up the program. As IB aims to provide education to everyone, students anywhere between the ages of 16 to 19 are eligible to apply for the IB Diploma Program.
IB as a board does not have any other criteria that need to satisfied to get admission. However, a lot of the individual schools might have minimum GPA requirements which can be quite tough to compete with given that there are only limited spots to apply for.
If you are in fact interested in the IB Diploma program in India, you need to fill in and submit a specific application with a given deadline. This application can either obtained through the IB website or it can given by the school counselor.
Also Read: Five essential elements of IB Program
Certain applications might require you to obtain and submit a letter of recommendations from your previous teachers, grade reports, personal statements, vaccination certificates, a list of your extracurricular activities, or/and any essays. In addition, while applying for the IB course, students are advised to apply to any Indian IB World School that is closer in distance to them.
Alongside having the IB Diploma program, there is also a Career-related Program that slightly differs from the IBDP. The CP is more of a vocational college program where students taught and allowed to gain professional skills while still in high school.
Now that you have both the bases covered, when do you actually enrol for the IBDP program in India? These programs don’t start until the students are in their junior year. However, students start with their prep courses as soon as they enter high school.
Because of this, students tend to start preparing for the IB program from the 8th grade. This is about a year in advance before they start freshman year.
Since the dates and deadlines vary from program to program and between each of the schools, it is best to contact the school or school counselors for all of the information and details. As for the cost to become an IB Student, it does not involve any unless there are application/registration fees with the individual school.
Nevertheless, at the end of the program, to take up the IB tests and get college credit with a passing score, you would need to pay anywhere from $10 to $170 as fees.
On another note, there are a few key pointers to keep in mind when you decide to become an IB student. It is essential to prepare for everything since it happens to be a rigorous course.
The first thing is to assess the IB Subjects that you have chosen for you. Are these the subjects that will help you in college with credits? Will these subjects help you for your career? While assessing, also think about which classes you will find the hardest and which ones you need to pay the most attention to.
Also, remember to have a favorite so it becomes easier for you to work on your Extended Essay (1 of the 3 core components). Since most of the subjects would be in English, it is important to polish up your skills in writing if English isn’t your native language.
To do this, you can read English books or watch English movies. The same applies for the Language B that you opt for (the foreign language). It tends to be very helpful when you start reading the specific language in books or watching their movies.
In case you pick a subject that is new to you, do the required research about what it involves and what you will be studying. Another vital point to remember is to explore your extra-curricular activities.
Not only is this required for the CAS Project/Journal (1 of the 3 core components), but it will also boost your application in college as it shows that you have experienced it all. When you take up the IB Diploma Program, it is essential to stay organized and practice doing the same.
While you will learn how to do it during the course, it is always better to start beforehand. Lastly, it is vital to not pay any heed to the IB rumours you hear and ignore them because it is best to not have any preconceived notion about how the last two years of your schooling year is going to be like.
Now that you have everything on your plate, it’s time to get excited to attend the IB Diploma program! This would not only be a brilliant end to your school year, but it will also help you grow as a person in terms of acquiring skills, developing your knowledge, and experiencing it all in just the span of two years.
Throw yourself into the program and we’ll meet you at the finish line!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What are the eligibility requirements for the IB Program in high school?
A: Eligibility requirements for the IB Program in high school may vary by school, but typically include a minimum GPA and completion of certain prerequisite courses or exams. Students should consult with their school’s IB coordinator or guidance counselor for specific requirements.
Q2: Do I need to have prior experience in IB to apply for the program?
A: No, prior experience in IB is not necessary to apply for the program. However, students should be prepared for the rigorous coursework and commitment required for the program.
Q3: How can I demonstrate my interest in IB and increase my chances of being accepted into the program?
A: Students can demonstrate their interest in IB by participating in extracurricular activities related to the program, such as Model UN or debate club. They can also take advanced courses in relevant subjects and maintain a strong GPA.
Q4: Is there a specific application process for the IB Program?
A: Yes, there is usually a specific application process for the IB Program that may include submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Students should consult with their school’s IB coordinator or guidance counsellor for specific application requirements and deadlines.
Q5: What if my high school doesn’t offer the IB Program?
A: If your high school doesn’t offer the IB Program, you may be able to enrol in the program at a nearby school or through an online program. Alternatively, you can explore other advanced coursework options, such as Advanced Placement (AP) courses or dual enrollment programs at a local college.
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