About the IB Program

WRHS is one of eight schools in Kansas and the only school in Topeka to have an IB Diploma Program. Authorized in 2012, the first class of seniors graduated in the spring of 2014. The IB provides opportunities to participate in small class sizes, be exposed to rigorous curriculum, conduct research, be active in the community and the world, and to become critical and creative thinkers in a global society. The program is open to all area students. 

The IB Diploma Program is an academically challenging and balanced program that meets international standards in education and prepares students for success in college and beyond. Life in our interconnected, globalized world requires critical thinking skills and a sense of international-mindedness, both of which IB Diploma Program students learn and understand. All IB Diploma students graduate as honor students and as IB Diploma candidates. The IB Diploma is officially awarded in July after all exams are graded and reported by the International Baccalaureate Organization. 

Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate courses and assessments are different, but they both offer rigorous coursework and are respected by universities across the world. Here are a few key differences:

• IB Diploma Candidates must take IB courses in at least six subjects--at least four subjects are studied for two years--and complete IB Core requirements. Students not enrolled in IB courses may take as many or as few AP courses as they please.

• IB students complete multiple assessments in each subject, including May final exams. AP students sit for one final May exam per subject. 

• IB curriculum emphasizes international approaches to issues and subjects.

• This article aptly summarizes the differences.

Yes. Nearly all universities in the US and Canada have both AP and IB credit award policies. These policies vary from college to college and from state to state. 

All Kansas Board of Regents universities offer credit for IB scores of 4 (out of 7) or better.

Universities across the world hold the International Baccalaureate program in very high regard. Please see the attached document for a comprehensive collection of quotes, most of which come from representatives who either lead or are directly involved with admissions offices.

Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL) courses differ in rigor, assessment and depth of knowledge. It depends on the subject, but here are the general differences:

• HL courses are more challenging and require more time.

• Students in HL classes are required to display a greater depth of understanding during IB assessment, and there are usually more assessments in an HL class.

• Some SL classes are completed in one year, but all HL classes span two years (junior and senior).

• Students are encouraged to enroll in HL classes that cater to their academic strengths.

• Students must enroll in at least three HL courses.

• All scores of 4 or better in IB courses (HL or SL) will transfer as credit at Kansas Board of Regents universities.

The IB program serves juniors and seniors, but there are a few things to consider before enrolling as freshmen and sophomores. If you are even considering the IB program as an option, contact your counselor for more information.