Selecting an IBDP package

An academically and personally challenging two-year pre-university course, the IBDP is designed to provide students of different linguistic, cultural and educational backgrounds with the intellectual, social and critical perspectives necessary for the adult world that lies ahead. Respected by schools and universities throughout the world, it is a high-quality educational programme designed and monitored by educationalists with the aim of encouraging international awareness. One of its greatest strengths is its independence from politically motivated interference by any national government.

Higher Level vs Standard Level

The IBDP involves choosing three subjects to study in detail at a higher level (HL) and three subjects at a standard level (SL).  Higher level is not always more difficult than Standard Level but instead covers a broader range of skills and understandings. 

• In Higher Level students have for 3 lessons per week, studying 240 hours over two years

• In Standard Level students have 2 lessons per week, equating to 150 hours over two years

• Higher Level subject usually have one additional examined component or exam paper compared to Standard Level. 

• With the exception of a small number of language students, no one is permitted to take four HL subjects. 

Students must select six subjects by choosing at least one subject from Group 1-5. Group 6 is optional.

Subject Selection Guidelines

We hope the following summary and guidelines will help you in selecting your subjects for the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP).

For the IBDP, you must choose: THREE subjects at Higher Level (HL) and THREE subjects at Standard Level (SL), unless you

choose to select our Systems Transformation course.

Subjects Offered

A detailed outline of all of our subject offerings is linked here.

Group 1 – Language A

• This is your first or best language (sometimes called a home language) and is offered as a study of Language and

Literature or Literature in a range of languages.

• If your first language is not included in this list you may still be able to study it at the Standard Level as a School Supported

Self-Taught Language A Literature. We have had students study languages from Dutch to Estonian to Zulu. This is a

popular option for students to continue studying a familiar language and to maintain a connection with their culture. For

more detail on how this programme works including tutoring, please see our website.

Group 2 – Language B (Language Acquisition)

● The IBDP requires you to study an additional language. This can be studied at the B or ab initio (beginner) level and we offer

a wide range of options. Our website explains each language and level in more detail. There are IB guidelines to ensure

students study at a language level, where they are provided with an adequate level of challenge, therefore when you join

Grade 11 we will check your selection carefully to ensure you have been placed correctly.

● You are NOT REQUIRED to select a Group 2 language IF you study TWO Group 1 languages (e.g., English A Literature +

School Supported Self-taught Zulu or English A Literature + Spanish A Literature). Students who do two Group 1 subjects are

awarded the Bilingual Diploma and this is a popular option for students.

Group 3 – Individuals and Society (Humanities)

● A diverse selection of Group 3 subjects are offered at both Higher and Standard Level to suit a range of interests.

Environmental Systems and Societies (ESS) is offered as an option that satisfies requirements of both Group 3 and 4. If

students do not take a Group 6 Arts subject they can take 2 subjects from this group.

Group 4 – Sciences

● A range of Group 4 subjects are offered at both Higher and Standard Level and allow students to specialise in areas of

interest. Environmental Systems and Societies is also offered as an option that satisfies requirements of both Group 3 and 4.

Group 5 – Mathematics

● There are FOUR mathematics courses: Analysis and Approaches (SL and HL) and Applications and Interpretations (SL and

HL). Each of these courses has been designed to develop a slightly different set of skills and understandings so please

explore our website to understand the differences and any relevant university prerequisites for Mathematics.

Group 6 – The Arts

● UWCSEA offers a range of Group 6 courses at both the Higher and Standard Levels: We are very fortunate here to have

world-class facilities available for all of our offerings in the arts. This is a great option for students wishing to explore this

area even if you haven’t had much exposure to it in the past.

Systems Transformation: Leadership for Change course: 

This is an innovative 300-hour course co-created by students, teachers and curriculum leaders.  It is a double SL subject that takes the place of two SL subjects as part of your IB Diploma and provides you with more flexibility in your other subject choices. It is designed for Grade 11 and 12 students who are ready to commit to brave and meaningful action and equips them with the skills and mindsets needed to take initiative, build community, and lead change. You can read more about this course on the following page of our website.