Frequently Asked Questions

I am an IB student. Who do I turn to with questions about the programmes?

The IB coordinator at your school is a great resource for information about the IB programmes. Your counsellor can also provide information.

Can I use the curriculum from an IB programme to home school my child?

No. The IBO permits only students enrolled in and attending IB World Schools to participate in an IB programme.

How can my child enroll in an IB programme

You need to submit an application form, two teacher references and a transcript to enroll your child. We encourage you to contact the school’s IB secretary to learn how to enroll your child.

Does the IB Diploma Programme satisfy my national requirements for receiving a secondary or high school degree?

In the majority of countries, the IB diploma can entirely replace the national qualification for entry to university. However, it is important to check national regulations to see if the IB diploma gives, in addition, the same legal rights as a national diploma (for example, the right to be employed in the state service).

Can I transfer from one IB World School to another?

The IBO regional offices work closely with schools to ensure that students of all ages can transfer without problems. However, each IB World School makes its own decision.

Is the Diploma Programme curriculum the same all over the world?

The core requirements are the same but there is room for flexibility. The courses offered by one school may differ somewhat from those of another school.

How successful are IB students in applying to university?

Recipients of the IB diploma enjoy a high rate of acceptance at leading universities. In addition, some universities offer scholarships to IB graduates.

Can I take individual Diploma Programme courses?

Yes, but you will receive the IB diploma only if you fulfill all the requirements of the Diploma Programme. Students who enroll in individual courses will receive an IB certificate noting the courses they took and the marks they earned.

How many examinations do Diploma Programme students take, and when do they take them?

Diploma Programme students generally take six examinations, including one literature course taught in the student’s native language, one foreign language, one social science, one experimental science, one mathematics and one arts course. The arts course can be replaced by a second social science, a second experimental science, or a third language. Students take their examinations at the end of the two-year Diploma Programme; sometimes they take up to two of their examinations at the end of the first year of the Diploma Programme.

Where can I find a list of universities that accept the IB Diploma?

There is a list on the country page of the IBO website. Many other universities also accept the IB diploma but do not publish a recognition policy — you should contact them directly.

When are examination results made available?

Examination results are sent out in July for the May session and in January for the November session. Students may also obtain their results online at results.ibo.org. To access the web site, students must obtain a personal identification number (PIN) from their Diploma Programme coordinator.

As an IB graduate, how do I arrange to send a transcript of my grades to a university or graduate school?

IB graduates should send their requests for transcripts to the following addresses:

How can I obtain a syllabus or past examination paper for a Diploma Programme course?

These documents may be purchased from the IB store.

Are there any fees for the Programme?

Yes, fees are charged on a cost-recovery basis. IB registration and course fees are payable in the beginning of the school year.