This month, Unit-E wants to put to rest some of the International Baccalaureate Diploma program’s most infamous myths and hopefully answer any questions you had about the IBDP. We hope that this Q&A will help you decide whether or not IB is the right program for you!
1. The IB Diploma is harder than A-Levels.
The IBDP offers six subjects instead of the four that one takes at A-Levels; there is breadth as well as depth. 3 subjects are studied at Higher Level and 3 at Standard Level. Higher Level isn’t necessarily more ‘difficult’ than Standard Level,as it is simply an extension of the Standard Level topics. However, there surely ismore work. Much more.
2. The IB is a new qualification.
The IB was founded in 1968. To put that in perspective, the last major A-Level introduction of new modules was in 2000, so no, the IB isn’t new. It is studied in approximately 3500 schools in 144 countries worldwide.
3. I want to do Math Studies, but Math SL/HL is more highly regarded, so I have to take it.
Not necessarily, it depends on what universities you are planning to apply to, as well as what degree you plan on studying. If the major and career you are planning to pursue in the future does not require math knowledge, then you don’t need to take Math SL/HL. Therefore, it is best if you check with your university and degree requirements beforehand.
4. Universities don’t understand it.
Universities do understand and accept the IB. An independent survey of qualifications in 2010 by the Education Policy Improvement Center (EPIC) found that:
· Among 150 university faculty and admissions staff from the UK, the IB Diploma Programme was rated higher than other qualifications based on the breadth of the curriculum; development of critical thinking, time management and communication skills; and motivation of the students.
· 97% were satisfied the Diploma Programme prepares students for university.
· 96% favored a broad curriculum of the type IB offers.
5. CAS (Creativity, Action and Service) isn’t compulsory in order to pass the IBDP.
CAS is a compulsory requirement if you are taking part in the IB Diploma Program; you need to complete CAS to get your diploma. If you are doing the IB Certificate, then CAS is not one of the requirements.
6. IB students don’t have free time.
Although studying and academic work are major priorities throughout the two-year curriculum, IB students also take part in regular extracurricular activities outside of the academic aspects of school. CAS requires students to participate in activities that fulfill the criteria of creativity, action and service. Thus, IB students are guaranteed to have some leisure time to participate in extracurricular activities that not only interest them, but also satisfy the CAS requirements.
About UNIT-E
UNIT-E was founded in the spring of 2010 with the aim of establishing a non-profit, student-run magazine for international students in Beijing. Staffed by current students from a range of international schools, the magazine provides an amalgam of cultural tidbits, fragments of Beijing student life, and a broad spectrum of unique perspectives from a diverse group of young adults.
UNIT-E was founded in the spring of 2010 with the aim of establishing a non-profit, student-run magazine for international students in Beijing. Staffed by current students from a range of international schools, the magazine provides an amalgam of cultural tidbits, fragments of Beijing student life, and a broad spectrum of unique perspectives from a diverse group of young adults.
