The International Baccalaureate Diploma takes two years and is a subject-based qualification that covers lots of different subjects.
Students doing an IB Diploma will do a mix of six subjects to a standard level, and then carry on with three subjects to a higher level. IB students choose one subject from each of the below areas:
As well as the above subjects, students also:
Students complete these activities as part of the Diploma Programme Core.
The short answer to this is - yes, you can. The process itself is very similar to how A Level students apply to university, only with some very slight differences:
To get into university with an IB, you will need to apply through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).
You will need to complete an online form, upload a personal statement and include one reference who can write about why you're such a great candidate.
Your school will submit your IB predicted grades. You can then pick up to five courses that you would like to apply for (four courses if you're doing a clinical programme like dentistry or medicine). The five courses can be at five different universities, or you can apply to two or more courses at the same university.
Unlike A Levels, the actual IB Diploma itself doesn't earn you UCAS points, at least under the current system.
However, the elements of the IB, such as the standard level subjects, higher level subjects and extended essays, do earn you UCAS points.
Despite this, students applying to universities having studied an IB are really common, so universities will usually make offers based on IB points, not UCAS ones. Each university will have its own IB points system, with some universities asking for 34 points across all programmes, whereas others may ask for much higher. Find out more about the UCAS and IB points systems.
You can find out how many IB points you need to get to land a space on your chosen course by checking the degree page online. Most universities will break down the different entry requirements there.
If you could use a helping hand getting to grips with your entry requirements, contact our dedicated Student Services team by phone or by filling in their online form.