DP at Mulgrave

Diploma Programme students study six subjects (three at standard level and three at higher level) over two years and complete three additional requirements: the theory of knowledge (TOK), the extended essay and at least 150 hours of CAS (creativity, activity and service tasks outside of the classroom). In addition to these requirements, students must earn a minimum of 24 points out of a possible 45 points on the final assessments which are externally marked and moderated by the IB, in order to receive an IB diploma.

The DP is internationally recognised as representing one of the highest standards in university preparatory education. More than 1,000 colleges and universities in North America have recognition policies on how they weigh it in admissions, advanced standing, college credit and scholarships.

The DP is a rigorous course of study for motivated students. Indicators of ability to earn the diploma include:

• prior academic success in the MYP and equivalent qualification
• a student’s determination to do their best
• willingness to be organised in order to complete the work while leading a full, balanced life, and a strong commitment to learning in and beyond the classroom

Absolutely. Most successful Diploma Programme students lead very full lives. They are often members of athletic teams and involved in a wide range of activities. Time management and organisation are key skills the IB develops in students.

The IB Diploma Programme is a two-year comprehensive curriculum with a culminating set of externally graded final exams. IB, Advanced Placement (AP) and other college-preparatory curricula like Cambridge are all university preparatory, academically rigorous programmes. There are important differences, however, in the content and exams. The DP is a cohesive and comprehensive programme, not a collection of individual courses as is the case with Advanced Placement. The most important distinguishing factors are the core of the Diploma Programme (CAS, TOK and extended essay) as well as the emphasis on a liberal arts approach, encompassing both breadth and depth and allowing IB students to cultivate cross-disciplinary thinking and problem solving skills rather than just focusing on a few specialised subjects.