We’ve previously mentioned how
many universities prefer students who have graduated from International Baccalaureate programmes. They’re accepted at a 22% higher rate and achieve higher GPAs in general, and the academic rigour of the IB casts them in a favourable light, and some universities even provide course credits for IB subjects.But sometimes, statistics aren’t enough, so take a look at some anecdotes from admissions officers in schools around the world.Over at McGill University in Canada, Director of Admissions Kim Bartlett talks about the rigorous academic preparation that IB students can expect to receive, and how it applies to university life:“McGill has enthusiastically recruited IB students for over two decades. Even today, when reviewing an application from an IB diploma candidate, whether from the local CEGEP (collège d’enseignement général et professionnel) or the other side of the globe, our admissions officers can be assured of the candidate’s strong and broad‑based academic preparation. We have seen that IB students embrace the rigorous academic challenges of university life and perform well in their McGill programmes. As a member of the College and University Recognition Taskforce, I can attest to the respected position of the IB diploma at prestigious universities throughout North America.”On the other side of the world in Australia, Professor Lyn Griffiths, Head of Griffith University Gold Coast’s School of Medical Science, and director of their Genomics Research Centre, highlights the unique learning skills developed in the IB, a core component of the
Learner Profile:“Increasing numbers of university students now continue their education to include postgraduate research qualifications. Unique skills are required for tertiary research studies and for those who continue into research careers. The International Baccalaureate emphasizes inquiry‑based learning, independent learning and lifelong learning. These are exactly the types of skills that are needed to undertake postgraduate research studies effectively and also to develop and establish successful long‑term research careers.”In India, Dr. Indu Shahani, principal of HR College at the University of Mumbai, reports the maturity, outspokenness, and open-mindedness of IB students.“Over the years we at the University of Mumbai have been delighted to admit students of the IB Diploma Programme. The candidates stand out as mature, well-grounded students who have a very broad outlook on education. In the class, they are very interactive and well-informed. While they are quite opinionated on issues it is interesting to see how open they are to the opinions of others. Their application orientation helps other students in the college to bridge the gap between theory and practice. The IB philosophy definitely rubs off on our undergraduate education!”Sounds like a glowing recommendation, doesn’t it? The IB is uniquely designed to prepare students for the real world and the workplace, allowing them to become global citizens and contribute meaningfully to society.According to the IB’s own guide for universities and colleges, admissions officers are assured of certain assumptions in every student:
Academic strength of curriculumAdmissions officers can be assured of students’ strong preparation of coursework in a cohesive and broad‑based curriculum that encompasses the basic academic areas: mother‑tongue language and literature, second language, social sciences/humanities, experimental sciences and mathematics.
Academic strength of schoolsAll IB World Schools must offer, support and maintain a minimum of seven or eight strong academic departments.Academic strength of studentsThe IB Diploma Programme requires students to maintain a high level of focus and performance.
External validationThe IB Diploma Programme validates both achievement and academic integrity in students’ performance through its examination requirements.
Research and writing skillsThe extended essay requirement—an independent, self‑directed piece of research, culminating in a 4,000‑word paper—provides practical preparation for the kinds of undergraduate research required for further and higher education. It is also the opportunity for students to engage in an in‑depth study of a topic of interest within a chosen subject.
Acceptance of educational challengesParticipation in the IB Diploma Programme demonstrates that students accept, rather than avoid, rigorous academic challenges.
Critical‑thinking skillsThe required theory of knowledge course ensures that students become critical thinkers who understand the interdisciplinary nature of learning.
Interview skillsIB students have strong preparation in oral presentation skills. Several IB courses include mandatory oral assessments, and the theory of knowledge course requires students to shape their opinions into logical discourse.
Extra‑curricular involvementThe creativity, action, service element requires students to invest a minimum of 150 hours during the final two years in non‑classroom activities.
Maturity and responsibilityThe IB Diploma Programme assists students in developing time‑management, goal‑setting and other organizational skills.Each of these assumptions applies to every student in SISD, and you can be assured of your child having a solid shot at any university they apply to.
Sources:DP Guide for UniversitiesUniversity AdmissionsIBDP – A guide for Universities
Watch this video to discover what an MYP education looks like.Learn more about the MYP at SISD.
