What is the IB Diploma?
The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) is a prestigious two-year pre-university qualification recognized by top universities worldwide. It develops students who are knowledgeable, caring, and motivated to succeed.
IB Subject Groups
Students choose six subjects across these groups:
- Studies in Language and Literature — Your native language at higher or standard level
- Language Acquisition — A second language (ab initio, SL, or HL)
- Individuals and Societies — History, Geography, Economics, Psychology, etc.
- Sciences — Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Computer Science, etc.
- Mathematics — Analysis & Approaches or Applications & Interpretation
- The Arts — Visual Arts, Music, Theatre, Film (or a second subject from groups 1-4)
Higher Level vs Standard Level
You must take 3-4 subjects at Higher Level (HL) and the rest at Standard Level (SL). HL subjects require 240 teaching hours vs 150 for SL. Choose your HL subjects based on your university goals.
The Core Components
- Theory of Knowledge (TOK): Explores how we know things — critical thinking about knowledge itself.
- Extended Essay (EE): A 4,000-word independent research paper on a topic of your choice.
- CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service): 18 months of extracurricular activities across three areas.
Scoring and Grades
Each subject is graded 1-7, for a maximum of 42 points. The TOK and EE together can earn up to 3 bonus points, giving a maximum total of 45. Most competitive universities expect 36+ points.
Tips for IB Success
- Start your Extended Essay early: Don't leave it until Year 2. Begin research in the first semester.
- Keep a CAS portfolio: Document everything as you go. Last-minute CAS completion is stressful.
- Use past papers: IB exams follow predictable patterns. Practice with past papers and mark schemes.
- Manage your time: With six subjects plus core components, time management is the #1 skill you need.
Practice IB Knowledge
BrainForge offers an IB quiz category with questions spanning TOK, Sciences, Mathematics, and more. Test your knowledge and identify areas that need more revision before your exams.