IB stands for International Baccalaureate, but what is it?
“What is an IB education?” — video © International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO). Used with permission.
Why IB?
Global Recognition
IB is recognized by universities worldwide for its rigorous academic standards. It can give students an edge when applying to competitive universities, especially in the US, UK, Canada, and Europe.
Holistic Education
IB focuses not just on academics, but on developing well-rounded individuals. The curriculum includes:
Diploma Program
Theory of Knowledge (TOK) – Critical thinking and philosophy
Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) – Encourages extracurricular engagement
Extended Essay (EE) – Independent research and academic writing
Career-Related Program
Personal and Professional Skills (PPS) - Skills for success
Community Engagement (CE) - Encourages community involvement
Reflective Project (RP) - Independent research and problem solving
Language and Cultural Studies (LCS) - Exploration and international-mindedness
Critical Thinking & Inquiry-Based Learning
IB emphasizes inquiry, reflection, and open-mindedness, helping students become better thinkers and problem solvers—not just good test-takers.
Multilingual Development
Students are required to study at least one additional language, which builds communication skills and cultural awareness.
Strong Preparation for University
IB students often feel more prepared for the workload and expectations of university due to the program’s structure and depth.
Focus on International-Mindedness
IB fosters global awareness, tolerance, and understanding, which is great preparation for living, studying, or working in a multicultural environment.
Skill Development
IB develops a wide range of transferable skills: time management, research, writing, collaboration, and presentation—all crucial for future success.
IB Videos
IB Learner Profile — video © International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO). Used with permission.
“The value of an IB education with Stanford University’s Debra Von Bargen” — used with permission. Video © International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO)
“Skills for STEM fields” — video © International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO). Used with permission.
International Baccalaureate: Empowering learners to thrive and make a difference — video © International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO). Used with permission.
IB's Approach to Learning
IB believes that learning "how to learn" is fundamental to a student's education.
IB has five interrelated skills called the IB approaches to learning. These skills aims to empower IB students of all ages to become self-regulated learners who know how to:
ask good questions
set effective goals
pursue their aspirations, and
have the determination to achieve them.
IB hopes these skills will help you feel in control of your own learning and see your learning as an active and dynamic process.
Our programmes help students develop a broad set of skills that support success in school, work, and life beyond the classroom. These skills encourage students to think deeply, communicate effectively, work well with others, and take responsibility for their own learning.
Students build strong thinking skills, including the ability to analyze ideas, approach problems creatively, and consider ethical perspectives. They also develop research skills, learning how to find, evaluate, compare, and organize information in meaningful ways.
Clear communication is an important focus. Students practise expressing ideas confidently through writing and speaking, listening actively to others, and constructing well-reasoned arguments. Social skills are strengthened as students learn how to collaborate, build positive relationships, and resolve challenges respectfully.
Students are also supported in developing self-management skills, such as organizing tasks, managing time effectively, setting goals, and maintaining motivation and wellbeing.
Rather than studying subjects in isolation, our programmes emphasize connections across disciplines and encourage students to apply their learning to real-world contexts. This approach helps students see learning as relevant, interconnected, and meaningful.
Even students who take only a few IB courses benefit from this approach, as it encourages them to think beyond individual subjects and develop skills that transfer across different areas of learning and life.
To learn more about the International Baccalaureate and its educational philosophy, including Approaches to Learning, visit the official IB website at www.ibo.org.
Who is IB for?
IB's programmes are not intended just for academically talented students. Typical IB students:
are motivated
enjoy academic challenges
are capable of success in high school academic courses
are committed to putting in the effort necessary for success
are well-rounded, involved in the school and community through sports, arts, and service