The IB Diploma Programme is a rigorous, two-year educational framework designed for students aged 16 to 19, focusing on a comprehensive, internationally recognized curriculum. It aims to develop students’
intellectual, personal, and social skills, preparing them for success in higher education and beyond.
The IB Diploma Programme includes six subject groups along the three DP cores comprising: the Theory of Knowledge (TOK), the Extended Essay (EE), and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS). Together, these elements encourage well-rounded learning and critical thinking across multiple disciplines.
IB Diploma Programme Timeline/Roadmap (Year-round)
Here’s a breakdown of key deadlines and important activities for the IB Diploma Program (IBDP):
| Year | Month | Activity |
| Year 1 | September | Semester 1 begins with an orientation for students. |
| Introduction to the 3 core components. | ||
| October | Initial CAS review with students and advisors. | |
| November | Students submit EE topic proposals. | |
| First CAS review completion for progress tracking. | ||
| January | Students begin the CAS project and submit the first draft of some Internal Assessments (IA). | |
| February | Semester 2 begins. | |
| Continued work on CAS projects. | ||
| Submission of early IA drafts across various subjects. | ||
| March | Final drafts of IA subjects are due for submission. | |
| April | Completion of major IA projects and essay outline. | |
| June | Submit the Extended Essay (EE) draft to the supervisor for feedback. | |
| July | Semester 2 concludes, and results are announced. | |
| Year 2 | September | Semester 3 resumes with a focus on IAs and EE progress. |
| Submit the complete first draft of EE for supervisor review and feedback. | ||
| October | TOK exhibition held. | |
| November | Final EE submission. | |
| Final IA submissions. | ||
| January | Submit the first draft of the TOK essay. | |
| February | Semester 4 begins with language IOCs taking place. | |
| Continued assessments in various subjects. | ||
| March | Submit the final paper for the TOK Essay. | |
| Continued review of course material for final exams. | ||
| April | Study leave begins for final exam preparation. | |
| May | Final IB exams are conducted, concluding the two-year IBDP. | |
| July | Results made available. | |
| Opened Registration for retakes. | ||
| September | Diplomas are sent out to schools and collected by students. |
Throughout this process, following the IB Diploma Programme syllabus and meeting IB Diploma requirements will help students develop the skills necessary for success and complete the program with IB recognition.
IB Diploma Programme Syllabus
The IB Diploma Programme curriculum consists of the DP core and six subject groups. The DP core includes three essential components designed to enrich students’ learning experience and encourage them to apply their knowledge and skills in diverse ways. This structure fosters a comprehensive and challenging educational journey.
| DP Core | The DP core includes three essential components designed to expand students’ learning horizons and encourage them to apply their skills and knowledge in practical and innovative ways. |
| Theory of Knowledge: | Encourages students to reflect on the nature and sources of knowledge. |
| Extended Essay: | A 4,000-word independent research project fostering self-directed inquiry. |
| Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS): | Involves participation in creative, physical, and community-oriented activities. |
| Six Group Subjects | |
| Studies in language and literature |
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| Language acquisition |
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| Individuals and societies |
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| Sciences |
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| Mathematics |
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| Arts |
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*Interdisciplinary subjects are marked with an asterisk.
Here is the detail regarding the DP core:
| Theory of Knowledge: | Focuses on critical thinking and the connections between different areas of knowledge and ways of knowing. |
| Extended Essay: | Requires students to independently research and produce a 4,000-word paper.
It is a mandatory requirement for all DP students. |
| Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS): | Students engage in a range of experiences and at least one project, focusing on meaningful activities, personal challenges, and reflective learning. |
Here is the detail regarding the six subject groups:
| Studies in language and literature | |
| Language A: literature | Covers literature from diverse cultures, forms, and periods, fostering critical reflection and literary analysis. |
| Language A: language and literature | Explores language’s cultural development, media functions, and literature. |
| Literature and performance | Three parts cover critical literary study, approaches to texts, and performance realization. |
| Language acquisition | |
| Classical languages | Offers students the chance to study Latin and Classical Greek, exploring ancient cultures through original texts. |
| Language Ab initio | Language ab initio is only available at Standard Level (SL).
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| Language B | Develop international-mindedness and understanding of language context, purpose, and meaning. |
| Individuals and societies | |
| Business management | Encourages critical thinking, strategic decision-making, and an appreciation of ethical, social, and environmental considerations in business. |
| Digital society | Explore digital systems’ impacts, engage in real-world research, and develop future-ready skills through assessments. |
| Economics | Explores micro and macroeconomic concepts, focusing on resource allocation, economic systems, and the impact of government policies. |
| Geography | Examines the physical and human environments, exploring topics like population, urbanization, and environmental sustainability. |
| Global politics | Focuses on political systems, power dynamics, and global issues such as human rights and international relations. |
| History | Provides a deep exploration of historical events and themes, focusing on causes, consequences, and interpretations of key events. |
| Language and culture | Allows students to study language through its cultural context, exploring how language shapes identity, values, and society. |
| Philosophy | Explore fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, ethics, and society. |
| Psychology | Explores the behavior and mental processes of individuals and groups, examining theories and research on topics like development and abnormal psychology. |
| Social and cultural anthropology | Cultural practices, social structures, and human behaviors from an anthropological perspective. |
| World religions | Provides an in-depth study of major world religions, focusing on beliefs, practices, and historical contexts. |
| Sciences | |
| Biology | Conduct practical investigations and apply biological concepts to real-world situations. |
| Chemistry | Practical experiments that help to learn & apply chemical theories to understand the natural world. |
| Computer science | Explore the impact of technology on society to help develop skills in solving complex computational problems. |
| Design technology | Apply engineering principles to explore sustainability, innovation, and the role of design in addressing global challenges. |
| Environmental systems and societies | Study ecosystems, sustainability, and global environmental issues while considering the social, economic, and ethical implications. |
| Physics | Engage with both theoretical and practical aspects of physics, developing problem-solving and analytical skills. |
| Sports, exercise, and health science | Explore human performance, body systems, and the impact of exercise on health and well-being. |
| Mathematics | |
| Analysis and approaches |
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| Applications and interpretation |
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| Arts | |
| Dance | Explores movement, choreography, and the cultural and social context of dance across time and place. |
| Film | Focuses on the theory, history, and production of film, emphasizing critical analysis and creativity. |
| Music | Develops skills in performance, composition, and music analysis, connecting music with cultural contexts. |
| Theatre | Engages students in acting, directing, and understanding the historical, social, and cultural impact of theatre. |
| Visual arts | Encourages creative expression through art-making processes, exploring techniques, concepts, and artistic contexts. |
How Manya – The Princeton Review Can Help with IB Diploma Syllabus?
Manya – The Princeton Review provides specialized support to help students excel in the IB Diploma Programme syllabus, offering expert guidance across all subject areas. With tailored study plans and dedicated resources, Manya ensures students are well-prepared to meet the IB Diploma requirements with confidence. Here’s how:
- Expert Guidance Across Subjects: Manya offers specialized support for each component of the IB Diploma Programme syllabus, covering all six subject groups to ensure comprehensive preparation.
- Extended Essay and Theory of Knowledge (TOK) Support: Students receive dedicated assistance in research, academic writing, and critical thinking, which is crucial for excelling in the Extended Essay and TOK requirements.
- Personalized Study Plans: Manya tailors study plans to each student’s strengths and areas for improvement, aligned with the rigorous IB Diploma requirements.
- Skill Enhancement for Exams: Focused training on exam techniques, time management, and analytical skills equips students to effectively meet IB assessment standards.
- Regular Progress Tracking: Manya provides consistent feedback and progress tracking, helping students stay on course and adapt their study approach as needed for each term and subject.
IB Diploma Assessment/Grading System
The IB Diploma Programme (DP) assessment/grading system combines both internal and external tests. It emphasizes reliability and objectivity. Final DP exams are critical, with some areas, like the TOK essay and EE, assessed through external coursework. Students also complete in-school assessments, which may be teacher-graded and IB-moderated. Scores range from 1 to 7 per subject. The DP core (TOK, EE, and CAS) adds up to 3 extra points. You need a total of at least 24 points to earn the diploma.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the IB Diploma Programme assessment tests students’ knowledge and skills. It is balanced and reliable. The DP uses written exams, coursework, and in-school tests to evaluate both subject matter knowledge and critical thinking skills. This approach helps students meet diverse academic standards and prepares them for university and future careers.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What subjects are assessed in the IB Diploma Programme?
The assessment covers both internally and externally assessed parts. These include written exams, coursework, and in-school tests for languages, sciences, and humanities.
How are IB Diploma scores calculated?
Students get a grade between 1 and 7 for each subject. The final diploma score includes three components: the Theory of Knowledge (TOK), the Extended Essay (EE), and Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS).
What is the role of the IB core components?
The DP core includes TOK, the extended essay, and CAS. These components significantly contribute to the successful completion of the diploma. TOK and EE add 3 points to the final score.
What is a bilingual IB Diploma?
A bilingual IB Diploma is for students who pass two language and literature courses, one of which must be in a second language. They must also get a grade of 3 or higher in other subjects.
Can students retake IB exams?
Yes, students can retake IB exams to improve their scores by following the specific policies and timings for the next available exam session.
