IB, IB degree, IB Diploma, IB certificates – what’s the difference?
• All ISI students in Grades 11 and 12 are enrolled in the full IB Diploma Program. • This means they study six subjects (three at ‘Higher Level’ and three at ‘Standard Level’) over two years, and they complete three additional requirements: the Theory of Knowledge class that promotes critical thinking; a substantial research paper called the Extended Essay, and at least 150 hours of ‘CAS’ – creative, action and community service activities outside of the classroom. • Students who complete all of this, and who are successful in the written examinations in May of Grade 12 will receive the IB Diploma. • If a student fails the actual diploma, he or she will still receive an IB certificate in every subject for which they write examinations. • The word degree is only used in the US, and is not part of the usual terminology.
