The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) is an academically challenging two-year pre-university curriculum leading to an internationally recognized diploma. IBDP students undertake college-level coursework, in-depth research, and community service modeled on university studies. Successful completion of the IBDP meets the highest standards of achievement worldwide and is equivalent to the German Abitur. The IBDP curriculum is accepted for direct university admission in over 140 countries, providing graduates wide flexibility in their higher education options. The IBDP aims to educate the whole person beyond academics. Students grow intellectually, emotionally, and ethically to foster intercultural understanding and become responsible global citizens.
IBDP-students must choose one subject from each of the six subjects groups, whereof a minimum of three must be Higher Level (HL) and the remaining Standard Level (SL). Higher and Standard Level courses are comparable to German „Leistungskursen and Grundkursen“. All IBDP-subjects are taught for two years; Higher Level courses cover 240 instruction hours and Standard Level Courses cover 150 instruction hours.
English A: Language & Literature (in English)
History (in German)
Spanish or Italian as a new foreign language. Alternatively, the group can chose a further subjects from the subject groups 2 to 5 or art, music, drama (in English)
This course encourages students to reflect critically on diverse ways of knowing and areas of knowledge. Students explore the role of language, logic, reason, emotion, and more in "knowing" different disciplines and fields. Key questions include: What counts as evidence for a claim? How do we judge explanations? What makes knowledge valid in different areas? TOK links learning across subjects and helps students develop self-awareness of their thought processes. It is assessed through an exhibition and a 1,600 word essay.
The EE enables students to pursue original research on a topic of personal interest. This independent project is modeled on an undergraduate research thesis. Students craft a focused research question, analyze and synthesize information from literature and primary sources, and reflect on their learning process. The EE is a 4,000 word essay that develops research, writing, and critical thinking skills vital for higher education.
CAS encourages students to be well-rounded, active, socially-conscious individuals. Pursuits in the arts, athletics, and community service foster students' passions and growth outside academics. Through CAS, students express their unique interests, collaborate with others, and develop responsibility to positively impact society. Completion of CAS is a diploma requirement. Students provide evidence of achieving outcomes across creativity, activity, and service.
Student progress is assessed through internal and external evaluations. Subjects are graded on a 1-7 scale, with 7 being the highest score. Teachers grade coursework like oral exercises, lab work, math explorations and art performances. Internal assessments are externally moderated to ensure consistent standards worldwide. Students take final written exams at the end of the two years, graded externally. Practice IB exams prepare students.
Theory of Knowledge and Extended Essay contribute up to 3 points towards the 24 point minimum for the full IB diploma, out of a maximum 45 points total. Diploma is awarded for 24+ points across subjects and cores, and satisfactory CAS completion.
The IB Diploma meets university entrance requirements in over 140 countries globally. It is widely recognized as representing the highest standards in secondary education.
In Germany, successful IBDP candidates earn a bilingual diploma fully equivalent to the German Abitur university entrance qualification. IBDP graduates can access both German universities and universities worldwide.
Many IBDP alumni report feeling well-prepared for the demands of university coursework due to the program’s academic rigor. The independent research, critical thinking, time management, and internationalism cultivated in the IBDP serve graduates well in higher education and beyond.
ib(at)dbsaa.de
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