International Baccalaureate (IB): A parent's guide

Curriculum guide

International Baccalaureate

The IB is an inquiry-driven international curriculum offered in three stages: PYP (ages 3–12), MYP (ages 11–16) and the Diploma Programme (ages 16–19). It's the closest thing the international-school world has to a global default — accepted by universities in every major destination, and consistent enough that families moving between IB schools rarely have to bridge gaps.

Ages 3–12

Primary Years Programme (PYP)

Transdisciplinary, inquiry-led primary. Children explore six themes across the year, blending subjects to answer big questions. Ends with the Grade 5 Exhibition, a self-directed research project.

Ages 11–16

Middle Years Programme (MYP)

Eight subject groups plus a Personal Project. Students build research, self-management and communication skills through concept-driven units and international-mindedness threads.

Ages 16–19

Diploma Programme (DP)

Six subjects (three HL, three SL) plus three core elements: the Extended Essay (a 4,000-word research paper), Theory of Knowledge and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS). Students engage in a range of experiences outside academics across these three areas, promoting personal growth and community involvement.

DP students are graded 1–7 on each of their six subjects, with up to 3 bonus points from the core elements. A minimum of 24 points is needed to receive the diploma; the maximum possible score is 45.

International Baccalaureate

The IB and university admissions

The IB Diploma is recognised by universities in over 90 countries, including top institutions worldwide. Universities value the DP for its academic rigour, emphasis on critical thinking, and research skills developed through the Extended Essay. Some universities may grant advanced standing or course credit for HL subjects where students achieved high scores.

Specific admission requirements still vary between universities and countries, so it's worth checking entry criteria for the institutions you're interested in.

Is International Baccalaureate right for your child?

It tends to suit families who…

•Move between countries frequently
•Want a globally recognised qualification
•Value independent thinking and research skills
•Are targeting top universities internationally
•Prefer a broad, well-rounded education

It may be less ideal if…

•Your child strongly prefers vocational or creative paths
•They're likely to return to a national school system
•The high workload of the DP may be a concern
•Local university doesn't specifically recognise IB

Common questions

FAQs about the International Baccalaureate curriculum

Is the IB harder than A-Levels or AP? +

IB is broader and more workload-heavy than A-Levels, partly because of the core components (Extended Essay, ToK, CAS). It's comparable in academic depth at Higher Level. AP is more flexible — students choose how many courses to take.

Do UK universities accept the IB Diploma? +

Yes — UK universities including Oxford, Cambridge and the Russell Group accept the IB Diploma. Typical offers are quoted in IB points (e.g. 38 points overall with specific Higher Level scores).

At what age can my child start IB? +

The Primary Years Programme (PYP) starts at age 3. Many international schools begin the full IB pathway in early years and continue through to the Diploma Programme at 16–19.

Can my child switch into IB mid-school? +

PYP and MYP are flexible enough to absorb mid-year arrivals. The Diploma Programme is harder to join after the first term of Y12 because the two-year programme builds cumulatively. Speak to admissions about bridging options.

Find schools

Schools teaching International Baccalaureate on doris

Understanding international school curricula

International Baccalaureate

Primary Years Programme (PYP)

Middle Years Programme (MYP)

Diploma Programme (DP)

The IB and university admissions

FAQs about the International Baccalaureate curriculum

Schools teaching International Baccalaureate on doris