IB Diploma Programme

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) is a two year programme for Grade 11 and 12 students covering the Humanities and the Sciences.

Over two years, students study one subject from each of six subject groups including: 

  • English
  • Second Language (French, Spanish, or Mandarin)
  • Individuals and Societies (Economics, Geography or History)
  • Experimental Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, or Physics)
  • Mathematics
  • Arts (Film, Theatre Arts, or Visual Arts

 Students also fulfil three core requirements:

  • Extended Essay
  • Theory of Knowledge (TOK)
  • Creativity, Action and Service (CAS)

At least three and not more than four subjects are taken at Higher Level (HL), the other courses are taken at Standard Level (SL).

Exams
IB examinations are written in May of the Grade 12 year and are marked externally.  Each subject is graded on a scale of 1 (minimum) to 7 (maximum) and the scores are summed. The maximum total possible is 45 (7 each for six courses and 3 bonus marks for the Extended Essay and the Theory of Knowledge course). 

Subject to certain restrictions, an IB Diploma is awarded for a minimum total score of 24 points.  At least 20% of the final grade in each subject comes from internally assessed work.

Questions?

  • Questions regarding the Extended Essay and the Diploma Programme may be directed to Mrs Isobel Willard, IBDP Coordinator. 
  • Questions regarding the CAS Programme may be directed to Mr Luke Lawson, CAS Coordinator. 

IBDP Core Requirements

  • Theory of Knowledge (TOK)
    The interdisciplinary TOK course is designed to provide coherence to the entire Diploma Programme by exploring the nature of knowledge across all disciplines, encouraging an appreciation of other cultural perspectives.
  • Extended Essay
    The extended essay (maximum 4000 words) offers the opportunity to investigate a topic of individual interest and acquaints students with the independent research and writing skills expected at a tertiary level.
  • Creativity, Action and Service (CAS)
    Participation in the CAS programme encourages involvement in artistic pursuits, sports and community service work – this is satisfied by completing the Mulgrave Portfolio.