International Baccalaureate
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Program is a rigorous program designed for high school students. It is modeled after educational systems used in Europe, in countries such as France and the United Kingdom.The program offers many subjects, and students are required to take a certain number of courses in each of six areas of study. Students must also complete 150 service hours and write a 4000-word extended essay. At the end of each course, students take an IB exam which tests their understanding of the subject. Upon completion of the program, students receive a diploma certifying completion. This diploma is useful in obtaining college admission.
Some IB courses are recognized as equivalent to college level courses and colleges may award entering students with credit for high IB exam scores. In this regard it is similar to the Advanced Placement Program. Students who are not interested in completing the entire diploma program may choose to only take a few IB classes.
