Choosing subjects in the Diploma Programme

DP candidates must take one course from each of the following subject groups:

1. studies in language and literature
2. language acquisition
3. individuals and societies
4. sciences
5. mathematics

DP candidates must also take one IB elective which, may be an additional course from the sciences, or individuals and societies, or an IB art course. Each candidate takes a minimum of three (but at most four) subjects at the higher level (HL) over two years. The remaining subjects are taken at the standard level (SL) and may be either 1 or 2 years courses. HL and SL courses differ in scope but are measured according to the same grade descriptors. Students are expected to demonstrate a greater body of knowledge, understanding and skills at the higher level.

In addition, DP Candidates are required to complete the following core components:

• Theory of Knowledge course
• Creativity, Activity and Service
• the Extended Essay

Information about each subject/requirement can be found in the corresponding subject brief.

IB Diploma Requirements

To earn an IB Diploma, candidates have to take courses from six subject areas: one each from groups 1-5, and either one from group 6 or a substitute from groups 3 or 4.

Group 1: Studies in Language and Literature

• Language A: Language and Literature (HL only)

Group 2: Language Acquisition

• Language ab initio: Arabic, Chinese, French, Spanish (SL only)
• Language B: Spanish

Group 3: Individuals and Societies

• Business Management
• Economics
• Global Politics
• History (HL only)
• Psychology

Group 4: Sciences

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Design Technology
• Environmental Systems and Societies (SL only)
• Sports, Exercise, and Health Science

Group 5: Mathematics

• Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches
• Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation

Group 6: The Arts

• Dance
• Film
• Music
• Theatre
• Visual Arts

Students must take at least three courses at the Higher Level (HL); The rest of their courses will be taken at the Standard Level (SL).

Each course culminates in several assessments. Scores for each subjects' assessments are combined, and a student is awarded a score of 1-7, with a 4 considered passing.

To receive your IB Diploma, you will also need to complete the DP core. The core consists of three components:

• Theory of Knowledge (TOK Essay and TOK Presentation)
• the Extended Essay
• Creativity, Action, Service

Up to 3 bonus points can be awarded for EE and TOK.
 

To earn the IB Diploma, candidates need to earn a minimum of 24 total points and NOT have any of the following disqualifying conditions:

1. CAS requirements have not been met.
2. Candidate’s total points are fewer than 24.
3. An N has been given for theory of knowledge, extended essay or for a contributing subject.
4. A grade E has been awarded for one or both of theory of knowledge and the extended essay.
5. There is a grade 1 awarded in a subject/level.
6. Grade 2 has been awarded three or more times (HL or SL).
7. Grade 3 or below has been awarded four or more times (HL or SL).
8. Candidate has gained fewer than 12 points on HL subjects (for candidates who register for four HL subjects, the three highest grades count).
9. Candidate has gained fewer than 9 points on SL subjects (candidates who register for two SL subjects must gain at least 5 points at SL).