IB
International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme
A two-year pre-university programme accepted by universities in over 90 countries. Students take six subjects (three Higher Level, three Standard Level) plus Theory of Knowledge, an Extended Essay, and CAS. Competitive scores: 38+ for top universities, 42+ for Oxbridge.
Last updated
Frequency
May and November each year
Duration
Six subjects over two years
Format
Offline
Score range
1–7 per subject (max 45 with TOK/EE bonus)
Eligibility
IB Diploma Programme students (typically grades 11–12)
Conducting body
International Baccalaureate Organization
Source: International Baccalaureate Organization. Details here are for guidance only — fees, dates and eligibility change each cycle, so confirm on the official site before applying.
Verified against: International Baccalaureate — Diploma Programme.
Last verified: 14 June 2026.
Universities that accept IB
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Harvard University
Yale University
University of Toronto
McGill University
University of Oxford
University of Cambridge
Imperial College London
University College London
London School of Economics and Political Science
ETH Zürich
Related / Next steps
Preparation guides
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How to Get Into New York University (NYU)
A step-by-step guide to applying to NYU: choosing your campus and school on the Common App, Tisch artistic reviews, Stern and Tandon math requirements, NYU's test-optional (flexible) testing policy, and ED vs RD.
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How to Report Course Rigor and School Context to Colleges
How US admissions reads course rigor 'in the context of your school' — the school profile, the counselor's School Report, and taking the most challenging schedule you can.
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AP Exams and College Credit
A clear explanation of Advanced Placement (AP) exams — how they work, how scores are reported, and how colleges use AP scores to award credit or advanced placement. Credit policies vary by institution, so always verify with each college.
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