IB: International Baccalaureate in Austria for international students

IB – International Baccalaureate in Austria is a great opportunity for schoolchildren and students from all over the world to get an excellent international education. IB curricula and IB preparation are provided by a number of private educational institutions (international schools), which are distinguished by a high level of training, equipment, and security. Austria is one of the leaders in high-quality and affordable European education, a country where thousands of foreign students and schoolchildren come every year. The educational system of Austria implies individual assistance and support, an effective system of pre-professional and pre-university training.

IB - International Baccalaureate - in Austria for foreign students is represented by a number of prestigious educational institutions and quality programs, thanks to which Austrian and foreign students can get a diploma that gives advantages when enrolling in any university in the world.

The IB program began to operate in the 1960s and quickly became widespread. The popularity of the standard is easily explainable, because in addition to an exceptionally high level of education, IB involves the issuance of a diploma that is recognized worldwide and allows you to enter the best universities in Europe, America, Asia, Australia (in case of high marks for final exams, some universities accept applicants even without entrance examinations). The standard includes 4 educational programs for children and schoolchildren aged 3 to 19 years:

• First level
• Secondary school
• Graduation program (high school)
• Career development.

The standard at all levels involves:

• Individualized and comprehensive development
• Specialized and standard disciplines
• Special courses / classes
• Sports, creative, spiritual and moral education.

Taleen Chaalan

Amadeus School Vienna Admissions Officer

Amadeus School Vienna has adopted the international IB program - from elementary grades to graduation. This allows children from an early age to choose their own additional activities, hobbies and classes - for example, dance, music or other arts. At the IB graduation stage, students choose 6 subjects for 2 graduation classes. In 2020-2021 We offered a choice:

• English
• Russian
• Chinese
• History
• Business and management
• Biology
• Physics
• Ecology
• Mathematical applications and interpretations
• Mathematical analysis
• Chemistry
• Economy
• Music
• Art.

The most popular is the diploma, graduation program IB Diploma, where studying lasts for 2 years and includes the development of critical thinking, research skills, the implementation of complex projects, independent academic and creative activities. Subjects are divided into 6 large groups: each student selects six subjects, three of which are specialized and are studied in advanced mode. Direction groups include:

• Foreign languages and literature
• Native languages and literature
• Science cycle
• Mathematical and related sciences
• Humanitarian cycle
• Disciplines of choice.

To obtain a diploma, each graduate must pass complex and multi-stage final exams:

• Final tests (separately for each discipline, grades from 1 to 7)
• Essay (4000 word research paper)
• At least 150 hours of work on the CAS project (volunteering, social work)
• Scientific works on the TOK course ("Theory of Knowledge").

IB is available in a number of private institutions (international private boarding schools):

These schools are distinguished by a high level of quality of education, excellent equipment, comfortable living conditions. Schoolchildren receive comprehensive development, engage in sports, creativity, arts, participate in conferences and competitions. The schools have special departments for career guidance, seminars and classes are held to identify the most preferred specialties for future study and work.

The IB is an international education program designed to prepare students aged 16 to 19 for university study and international life. It focuses on developing critical thinking, research skills and intercultural competence.

Compulsory subjects in the IB program include English Language and Literature, Mathematics, and three additional subjects that students choose from various categories such as science, social studies, arts, languages, and others. Also an important part of the program is the Theory of Knowledge, where students explore the nature of knowledge and reflect on issues of ethics and knowledge.

The IB program consists of six compulsory subjects, including three High Level (HL) and three Standard Level (SL). Higher level subjects require more in-depth study, Theory of Knowledge and CAS as well as essay writing.

In Austria there are various secondary education programs, such as the Austrian matura or the German Abitur. However, the IB provides a unique international perspective and preparation for studying abroad, which can be particularly beneficial for students planning to study outside of Austria.

To obtain the IB Diploma, students must successfully complete all required courses, at least one of them at a high level (HL), and fulfill the requirements for Theory of Knowledge, CAS, and write an essay. Grades for each subject and additional requirements are calculated in points.

Schools offering the IB program typically provide students with regular tutorials, mock exams, one-on-one guidance, and access to self-study resources. Curricula and courses are focused on mastering the material and preparing for standard IB exams.

Some schools and organizations provide scholarships or tuition discounts for talented students. There are also international funds and programs that can provide financial support to students to help them pay for their studies.

The IB program provides students with broad skills and knowledge, making them more competitive when applying to universities in Austria. The IB Diploma is often regarded by universities as a highly qualified document that demonstrates the ability for analytical thinking, independent work and intercultural interaction.

Each subject in the IB program is graded on a scale of 1 to 7, with 7 being the highest. To receive an IB diploma, a student must score a certain number of points, the final score is calculated based on grades for all subjects and completion of additional requirements (CAS, Theory of Knowledge, essay).

IB schools actively promote a balance between academics and outside activities. The schedule usually includes time for sports, hobbies, and other student interests. In addition, teaching staff often provide one-on-one support to ensure students are able to cope successfully with their workload.