The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma program is an academic program that is practiced and respected around the world. IB began in Europe in the mid-1960’s to meet the academic needs of children in international communities. It blends the best educational practices of all countries. The IB program emphasizes: rigorous study in all academic areas; worldwide assessment system that ranks students on an international basis; responsible citizenship; critical and compassionate thinking; lifelong learning.

What is the difference between IB and other academic programs, such as AP?

The IB Diploma Program offers a course of study that seeks to educate the student in a total way. Diploma students take all their high school subjects in IB, rather than choosing just a few. The program is rounded out by the requirement to perform community service, do independent research, and consider the sources and value of knowledge in a required course called Theory of Knowledge. Many kinds of assessment, such as papers, orals, laboratory work and projects, in addition to the written exam, determine the final IB score, rather than the final score being determined by a single exam as it does in Advanced Placement. If students write individual exams for IB, Certificate credit, rather than the IB Diploma, then the IB Certificate is much like an Advanced Placement credit. Local universities accept up to three AP or IB Higher Level Credits, with above average grades for first year transfer credits. A school may teach only one or two A.P. courses. To be accredited as an IB. school, a school, however, must demonstrate that is able to deliver the full Diploma program.

Who should be in IB?

Students who are "motivationally gifted" do well in IB. They are not there because their parents want them to be, but because they want to be. The program is based on presumed knowledge that is age-appropriate. This means that mechanics of writing, fundamental math skills, and knowledge of laboratory procedure and other skills have been mastered. IB requires much reading and writing, and relies on conceptualization to a greater extent than other high school classes. Students should be aware of this when they apply. Ability to meet deadlines is an important characteristic of a successful IB student.

Is every student required to "go for the IB diploma"?

No, not at Kelvin. Here’s how it works. All preIB students (tenth grade) will be required to take preIB or equivalent academic subjects - English, French, history, two math courses, and two science. After that students choose their own level of IB for the remaining two years - from just a few classes to the full Diploma Program. IB students receive individual counseling by the IB coordinator on making choices.

Yes. Students in the spring of their S1 or ninth grade submit applications. Students who apply must take a general ability test and submit their S1 report card.

Who makes a good IB student?

This is a person who likes school, enjoys learning, has good math, reading and writing skills, and is interested in getting the most out of high school. Out of the IB experience will come a person who has gained an understanding of the world and relationships between the people in it; skills to gain knowledge, with an appreciation of the limits of knowledge; both a content-based grasp of various academic areas, but also an ability to use the tools of the discipline to evaluate any new situation.

Is there an expected acceptance number?

The Winnipeg School Division admits two pre-IB classes, around 60 students.

Yes! Every IB course shown on a transcript is highly regarded by universities and colleges not only in Canada and the US but also around the world. IB is widely known as the most rigorous program available in high school. In addition, most colleges and universities offer credit for scores of 5 or above on Higher Level exams. Most students who return from college report that IB set them far ahead of their college contemporaries in time management, research, thinking, and writing skills.

Can you have a life if you are in IB?

Definitely! IB courses grow in rigor as you grow through high school, so each year is challenging but "manageable". IB students are often the most active students in the school, balancing sports, leadership activities, community service, family and friends. The CAS portion of the Diploma actually requires that students become involved in extra-curricular activities and community service. IB students often form long lasting friendships.