The International Baccalaureate
I chose the IB Diploma Program because of the well rounded, multilingual, and multicultural education it provides. I was given a chance to flourish in an environment where I could learn new languages and delve into topics and subjects that truly interested me. The IB gave me the ability to not only learn about fascinating subjects, but also enriched me with a deeper understanding of the 'how' and 'why' of the world and greater universe. Ayanna '23, Cornell University
Global Recognition
International Baccalaureate programs are globally recognized for their unique academic rigor and their emphasis on students’ personal development.
There are more than 4,100 International Baccalaureate (IB) schools worldwide. The IB aims to do more than other curricula by developing inquiring, knowledgeable, and caring young people who are motivated to succeed and help create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect. IB students are encouraged to think independently and drive their own learning. For this reason, the IB Program is highly valued by universities around the world.
The IB Learner Profile
The International Baccalaureate supports the development of its students into global citizens and future changemakers. Here the IB’s Learner Profile—with its emphasis on inquiry, knowledge acquisition, empathy, communication, and risk taking—plays a critical role. The primary aim of the Learner Profile is to develop internationally minded individuals who strive toward a better and more peaceful world.
A Four-Year Program
The four-year International Baccalaureate Program at ISB begins with the Middle Years Program (MYP)* in Grades 9 and 10 and the Diploma Program (DP) in Grades 11 and 12. Although students can join ISB at the beginning of the DP in Grade 11, we strongly encourage families to consider entry in Grade 9 to maximize the benefits of an IB education.
Grades 9 and 10 focus on six subject groups: Language Acquisition, Language and Literature, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, Arts, Physical and Health Education, and Design. Students also participate in at least one interdisciplinary project, collaborative service activities, and a Personal Project to explore an area of interest over an extended period.
The curriculum in Grades 11 and 12 comprises six subject groups: Studies in Language and Literature, Individuals and Societies, Mathematics, Arts, Sciences, and Language Acquisition. The Diploma Program also includes the core, where students reflect on the nature of their knowledge, complete independent research, and participate in various creative, active, and service experiences. The DP core includes Theory of Knowledge (ToK), Extended Essay (EE), and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS).
College Preparedness
The IB Program is an excellent way for students to maximize their chances of gaining admission to their first-choice colleges. Research suggests that IB students are better prepared for the demands of university than students from match-controlled groups and are more likely to secure places at top colleges. Similar to AP Courses, many colleges and universities will consider high IB scores for advanced college credit.
*ISB is an authorized IB World School for the IB Diploma Program and a Candidate School for the IB MYP, pursuing authorization for this program. Candidate status does not guarantee authorization.
Meet Our IB Students & Alumni
ISB's small class sizes, world-class faculty, and approach to differentiated instruction allows students to thrive in our International Baccalaureate program. Students' reasons for enrolling in the IB Program are vast, but they all share a common appreciation for the value of global citizenship, independent thinking, and intercultural understanding. Our IB students matriculate to many of the nation's top colleges and universities, with some choosing to also pursue educational opportunities abroad.