What Is the International Baccalaureate (IB)?
The International Baccalaureate (IB) offers a continuum of four world-class education programs for students aged 3 to 19. Each program is designed to develop lifelong learners who thrive and make a difference in the world. The IB is globally recognized and respected by top universities.
The Four IB Programs
1. Primary Years Program (PYP) — Kindergarten to Grade 5
The PYP encourages curiosity, compassion, and cultural awareness in children aged 3 to 12. It is rooted in inquiry-based learning and aims to cultivate self-motivation.
- Key Elements:
- Understanding important concepts
- Developing positive attitudes
- Acquiring knowledge and skills
- Taking responsible actions
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- Six Transdisciplinary Themes:
- Who we are
- Where we are in place and time
- How we express ourselves
- How the world works
- How we organize ourselves
- Sharing the planet
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- Six Subject Areas:
- Language
- Social Studies
- Personal, Social, and Physical Education
- Mathematics
- Arts
- Science and Technology
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2. Middle Years Program (MYP) — Grade 6 to Grade 8
The MYP provides a strong academic foundation and helps students connect classroom learning with real-world applications. The "IB Learner Profile" emphasizes growth as inquirers, knowledgeable, caring, and reflective individuals.
- Eight Subject Groups:
- Language and Literature
- Language Acquisition
- Individuals and Societies
- Sciences
- Mathematics
- Arts
- Physical and Health Education
- Design
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3. Diploma Program (DP) — Grade 9 to Grade 12
The DP is a challenging academic program that prepares students for university and life beyond. It fosters inquiry, critical thinking, and research skills. Students select courses at Standard Level (SL) or Higher Level (HL).
- Six Subject Groups:
- Language A: First Language
- Language B: Second Language
- Individuals and Societies
- Experimental Sciences
- Mathematics
- The Arts
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- Core Components:
- Theory of Knowledge (TOK): Reflect on the nature of knowledge.
- Extended Essay (EE): Conduct independent research and write a 4,000-word paper.
- Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS): Participate in community and extracurricular activities.
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DP courses provide a solid theoretical foundation for further study and are excellent preparation for the Career-related Program (CP).
4. Career-related Program (CP) — Grade 9 to Grade 12
The CP is designed for students seeking a career-focused education. It connects academic study with professional interests and future-ready skills.
- Four Core Modules:
- Personal and professional skills
- Service and applied learning
- Reflective project
- Language development
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Benefits of IB Programs
- Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving: IB students learn to analyze and address complex problems.
- Academic and Social Skills: Develops both strong academic foundations and essential life skills.
- Independent Thinking: Encourages communication, reflection, and active participation.
- Global Recognition: The IB Diploma is accepted by top universities in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and worldwide.
- University Pathways: IB graduates often earn spots at elite institutions, including Oxford, Cambridge, and Ivy League universities.
- Growing in Taiwan: More schools in Taiwan are adopting the IB framework, making it an excellent choice for international-minded students.
