Understanding the IB Diploma Programme
Updated: 6 Feb 2026
The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (often called the IBDP or IB DP) is a two year, academically rigorous pre university programme designed for students aged about 16 to 19. It is known for balancing breadth (six subjects across disciplines) with depth (Higher Level study), while building research, writing, and reflection skills through the Core.
Who this is for: Students and parents who are considering the IB Diploma and want a clear overview of what it includes, how it is graded, and what day to day life looks like.
What makes the IB Diploma different?
Many pre university pathways encourage early specialisation. The IB DP takes a different approach by requiring students to study widely while still going deep in selected subjects.
- Breadth: Students take six subjects across languages, humanities, sciences, and mathematics.
- Depth: Students take a mix of Higher Level (HL) and Standard Level (SL). HL involves more content and deeper study.
- The Core: All full diploma students complete TOK, EE, and CAS.
Why it matters: The IB is not only about exams. It develops independent learning habits through projects, research writing, and reflection alongside academic study.
IB structure in plain English
1) Six subject groups (with one flexible slot)
Students choose six subjects. Traditionally, this means one subject from each group, but there is flexibility. Many students replace the Arts option with an additional Science or Humanities subject, depending on university goals and school offerings.
| Group | Area | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Group 1 | Studies in Language and Literature | English A, Chinese A (school dependent) |
| Group 2 | Language Acquisition | English B, Chinese B, Spanish ab initio |
| Group 3 | Individuals and Societies | Economics, Business Management, History, Geography |
| Group 4 | Sciences | Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Computer Science |
| Group 5 | Mathematics | Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches, Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation |
| Group 6 | The Arts (or a permitted substitute) | Visual Arts, Music, Theatre, or an extra Science or Humanity |
2) Higher Level (HL) and Standard Level (SL)
Students normally take a mix of HL and SL subjects (commonly three HL and three SL, depending on the school). HL courses are more demanding because they cover more content and require deeper engagement.
3) The Core: TOK, EE, and CAS
- Theory of Knowledge (TOK): Builds critical thinking by exploring how knowledge is formed and evaluated.
- Extended Essay (EE): A research based essay that develops academic writing and independent inquiry.
- Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS): A holistic component requiring ongoing participation, reflection, and completion.
How IB grading works
IB grading becomes simple once you separate subject points from Core points.
- Six subjects: Each graded 1 to 7 for a maximum of 42 points.
- Core points: TOK and EE add up to 3 bonus points (maximum total score 45).
- CAS: Must be completed satisfactorily, but does not add points.
Passing the diploma is not only about hitting a total score. Students must also meet requirements across HL and SL subjects and complete the Core components properly. This is why planning and consistency matter.
What the workload feels like
Many students find the IB workload heavy for three main reasons:
- Six subjects at once: You rarely have a week with only one focus.
- Internal Assessments (IAs): Substantial coursework pieces that run alongside exam preparation.
- The Core runs in parallel: TOK and the EE require long form thinking and writing over many months, while CAS requires ongoing commitment.
Reality check: Students who do best are often not the ones who cram hardest. They are usually the ones who are consistent, organised, and willing to start tasks before they feel “ready.”
Choosing subjects: practical advice
1) Start with university direction (even if tentative)
- STEM pathways often require specific Mathematics and Science choices.
- Business and Economics pathways usually value strong Mathematics and relevant humanities subjects.
- Humanities pathways typically value strong writing subjects and a good balance of reading heavy courses.
2) Balance and stamina matters
Some subject combinations are academically sound but extremely time heavy. The best combination is one that a student can sustain across two years without burning out.
3) Check what the school actually offers
Not every school offers every subject, especially for certain languages and arts options. Confirm availability early so you do not plan around a subject that is not offered in your school.
Common misconceptions
- “HL is worth more points.” Not directly. HL and SL are both graded 1 to 7. HL is harder because it is deeper and broader.
- “CAS boosts my score.” CAS is required, but it does not add points.
- “If I get 24 points, I automatically pass.” Total points matter, but students must also meet the diploma requirements and avoid failing conditions.
How to succeed in the IB
- Start IAs early: Begin with outlines and rough drafts, then improve through feedback.
- Use weekly time blocks: A timetable beats a to do list. Protect study hours like appointments.
- Run TOK and EE like projects: Set milestones and deadlines so they do not become last minute crises.
- Aim for stable 6s before chasing 7s: Consistency across six subjects often beats spikes.
- Submit drafts early and revise fast: Tight feedback loops usually produce the biggest score improvements.
Final thought
The IB DP is demanding, but it builds real pre university skills: academic writing, research habits, critical thinking, and disciplined time management. If a student can handle sustained workload and enjoys learning across multiple disciplines, the IB can be an excellent fit.
If you want a more tailored plan, prepare two pieces of information: (1) the student’s strengths and current grades, and (2) likely university direction (STEM, business, humanities, or undecided). From there, you can build a realistic subject selection strategy and a two year workload plan.