INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE

What is the IB?

The International Baccalaureate (IB) is an independent, non-profit international educational organisation founded in 1968 and headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.

The IB aims to develop curious, knowledgeable and caring young people who contribute to a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect. Its programmes encourage students to become active, compassionate and lifelong learners who recognise the value of different perspectives.

An IB education supports students’ academic, personal, social and emotional development. It encourages inquiry, critical thinking, ethical decision-making and responsible action. Students explore their own cultural identities while developing an understanding of other cultures and the wider world. Schools implement IB programmes within their local educational contexts and in accordance with applicable national requirements.

The IB learner profile is central to all four programmes. It describes ten attributes that students are encouraged to develop: inquirers, knowledgeable, thinkers, communicators, principled, open-minded, caring, risk-takers, balanced and reflective.

What are the IB programmes?

The IB offers four educational programmes for students aged 3 to 19. Each programme addresses the needs of its age group while sharing a commitment to inquiry, international-mindedness and lifelong learning. Schools may offer individual programmes or a continuum of IB education.

1. PYP – Primary Years Programme

Designed for students aged 3 to 12, the PYP offers a transdisciplinary, inquiry-based and student-centred approach to education. Learning is organised around six transdisciplinary themes that connect subject knowledge with meaningful questions and real-world contexts.

Students develop conceptual understanding, approaches to learning and the attributes of the IB learner profile. The programme values student agency, giving learners opportunities to contribute to their learning, make choices, reflect and take responsible action.

2. MYP – Middle Years Programme

Designed for students aged 11 to 16, the MYP helps students connect their learning with the world around them. Its framework includes eight subject groups and supports both subject-specific and interdisciplinary understanding.

Students develop research, communication, collaboration, self-management, and critical and creative thinking skills. The programme encourages them to explore local and global issues and apply their learning in meaningful contexts.

3. DP – Diploma Programme

Designed for students aged 16 to 19, the DP provides a broad and academically challenging education that supports preparation for university and further learning.

The curriculum comprises six subject groups and the DP core: theory of knowledge (TOK), creativity, activity, service (CAS), and the extended essay (EE). Through these components, students reflect on the nature of knowledge, undertake independent research and participate in creative, physical and service experiences.

4. CP – Career-related Programme

Designed for students aged 16 to 19, the CP combines academic learning with career-related education. Students complete at least two DP courses, the CP core and a career-related study.

The programme helps students develop academic knowledge, practical skills, ethical awareness and professional interests. It prepares them for a range of pathways, including further or higher education, apprenticeships and employment.

What does an IB education offer?

IB programmes support the development of:

• Subject knowledge and conceptual understanding
• Inquiry, research, and critical and creative thinking
• Connections across subjects and real-world contexts
• International-mindedness and intercultural understanding
• Communication, collaboration and self-management skills
• Ethical awareness, reflection and responsible action
• Independence and readiness for further learning

As of August 2026, IB programmes are offered in more than 6,200 schools across over 160 countries.

Across all four programmes, the IB seeks to develop thoughtful, engaged learners who can consider different perspectives, make informed decisions and contribute responsibly to their communities and the wider world.