The International Baccalaureate® (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) uses both internally and externally assessed components to assess student performance. (Source)
Teacher assessment is also used for most courses. This includes:
oral work in languages
fieldwork in geography
laboratory work in the sciences
investigations in mathematics
artistic performances.
Examinations form the basis of the assessment for most courses. This is because of their high levels of objectivity and reliability.
They include:
essays
structured problems
short-response questions
data-response questions
text-response questions
case-study questions
multiple-choice questions—though these are rarely used.
In the DP, students receive grades ranging from 7 to 1, with 7 being highest. Students receive a grade for each DP course attempted.
A student’s final diploma result score is made up of the combined scores for each subject. The diploma is awarded to students who gain at least 24 points, subject to certain minimum levels of performance including successful completion of the three essential elements of the DP core.
The theory of knowledge (TOK) and extended essay (EE) components are awarded individual grades and, collectively, can contribute up to 3 additional points towards the overall diploma score.
Creativity, activity, service (CAS) – the remaining element in the DP core – does not contribute to the points total but authenticated participation is a requirement for the award of the diploma.
The IB awards the same number of points for higher level (HL) and standard level (SL) courses, reflecting the IB’s belief in the importance of achievement across a broad range of academic disciplines.
HL and SL courses differ in scope but are assessed against the same grade descriptors, with HL candidates expected to demonstrate the various elements of the grade descriptors across a greater body of knowledge, understanding and skills.
For more information on SL vs. HL courses, see the Student Requirement page.
