FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FAQ
How does the points system work? Each of the six subjects is graded out of seven. The Extended Essay and Theory of Knowledge are combined to give up to three core points. The total Diploma score is therefore a maximum 45 points.
How does the IB compare to A-levels? The International Baccalaureate Diploma is a complete programme of study, and overall is more comprehensive and rigorous than A-levels. The IB has not suffered from grade inflation and therefore is more able to distinguish between good and excellent students. All universities recognise the IB as at least an equivalent qualification, and in many cases indicate a preference for it.
Is the IB accepted and well understood by universities? UK universities are well aware of the IB, and despite IB students only representing a small percentage of overall UCAS applications, all of them will provide IB minimum requirements alongside their A-level requirements.
In addition, research is revealing that of those students who meet the minimum application requirements, IB students have a slight edge in terms of receiving offers. Research has also shown that high-achieving IB students are more likely to receive 2.1 or first class degrees than their equally high-achieving A-level peers.
North American universities, with their broad curriculum, are more attuned to the IB philosophy and IB students find themselves at an advantage in North America. Some universities will even offer credit in particular subjects for IB students who have done well. The IB Diploma is the international standard in education and North American universities have been working with IB students since its inception.
Can I study more than three Higher Levels / more than six subjects? All of our Sixth Form students follow a six-subject Diploma with three Higher Level subjects. We think that the Diploma is properly weighted in its normal form and is already a challenging enough course. We support the IBDP in its promotion of a broad curriculum and suggest that if a student does have a little extra time or energy, he or she contributes further to the co-curricular programme or some other aspect of the Diploma. If a student wishes to attend some extra lessons out of intellectual curiosity, this is usually fine, although they will not be entered for the examination.
Does the IB include coursework? Yes, around 20 per cent for each subject and then three core points awarded for Theory of Knowledge and Extended Essay coursework.
How many students gain top grades? A number of Sevenoaks students gain the maximum 45 points each year, with a substantial number gaining between 40 and 44 points. Our average points score is 39.0. Universities and programmes understand the challenge of the IB and therefore ask for a wide range of grades. Students do not need 45 or 44 points to earn places at the UK’ s best universities.
60 THE IB AT SEVENOAKS | THE SIXTH FORM