Diploma Programme curriculum
IB Diploma Programme students study six courses at
higher level or standard level. Students must choose one
subject from each of groups 1 to 5, thus ensuring breadth
of experience in languages, social studies, the experimental
sciences and mathematics.
The sixth subject may be an arts subject chosen from group 6, or the student may choose another subject from groups 1 to 5.
At least three and not more than four subjects are taken at higher level (recommended 240 teaching hours), the others at standard level (150 teaching hours). Students can study these subjects, and be examined, in English, French or Spanish.
Students will develop an understanding of the IB learner profile. The ten aspirational qualities of the learner profile
inspire and motivate the work of teachers, students and schools, providing a statement of the aims and values of the IB and a definition of what we mean by “international-mindedness”. IB learners strive to be inquirers, thinkers, communicators, risk-takers, knowledgeable, principled, open-minded, caring, balanced and reflective.
Find out more
Read the Schools’ Guide to the Diploma Programme [788 kb, PDF]
Read A basis for practice: the Diploma Programme [164 kb, PDF]
Read A continuum of international education: the Primary Years Programme, the Middle Years Programme and the Diploma Programme [251 kb, PDF]
Programme standards and practices [168 kb, PDF].
Order IB publications relating to the Diploma Programme.
Examination papers and markschemes
Visit the IB store to buy downloadable copies of past IB Diploma Programme examination papers and markschemes.
Academic committee
Terms and conditions [292 kb, PDF]
