Are you stuck in limbo trying to decide whether the IB is right for you? If so, here are 5 reasons why we think you should shake off any doubts and go for it!
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It’s well rounded
If you can’t decide what subjects to take, not to worry! You choose 6 subjects in total. You’ll pick one subject from each subject group, including Maths, Science, Humanities, Languages and so on. You will choose to take 3 of these subjects at a Standard Level, and 3 at a Higher Level. Each subject is graded out of 7 points. As a result, you aren’t forced to drastically narrow down your subject choices. Instead, you’re able to keep your options open.
You pick one subject from each group around the wheel (ibo.org)
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Beyond the classroom
The IBDP is by no means purely academic. Emphasis is placed on the person as a whole. Three of the 45 points available are awarded for the Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge and CAS (creativity, action, service) components. Hence, you are able to keep up extracurricular activities such as arts and sports, as well as exploring new interests within the CAS programme. For more insight into what CAS is about, this blog outlines some inspiring CAS tales.
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Independent thinking
The overriding aim of the IBDP is:
“To develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect.” (IBO, 2017)
You’ll be encouraged to think independently and creatively, because at the core of the IB’s values are Theory of Knowledge (ToK) and the Extended Essay (EE). These are non-examination based requirements of the course which push you to think critically and openly about global topics. Since each student writes a 4,000 word Extended Essay on a topic of their choosing, you have a great opportunity to pursue an academic interest in whatever area you please!
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You’ll be ahead of the game when it comes to University
IB students experience the lowest dropout rate at University, highlighting how well the IB prepares you well for Higher Education. You will be nurtured into an independent thinking, inquiring and self-motivated mind. Notably, IB students consistently have a higher acceptance rate to top universities when compared to other academic programmes. What’s more, the average starting salary for IB alumni is on average £1,500 higher compared with those who took the UK National Curriculum of A-levels! More information on applying to University as an IB student can be found here.
The IB Kid | Twitter
5. You’re not alone!
There’s no doubt about it, the IB is on the up. The number of students taking the IB is increasing year upon year, with over 150,000 students sitting their IB exams last May. Furthermore, currently over 4,700 schools offer the IBDP worldwide, an increase of 40% since 2012!
So with hope, we’ve opened your mind to some of the main perks of the IB. If you do go ahead and take it on, rest assured that we’ll be here to support you every step of your IB journey! Subscribe to our newsletter to ensure you never miss out on our top tips and tricks for taking control of your IB from the start!
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