IB: International Baccalaureate in Canada for international students

Schools in Canada for international students attract with highly developed educational system. Canadian schools have good sports facilities, modern classroom equipment. Results of studying at best schools in Canada are: thoughtful form of teaching, excellent preparation of students, that is regularly demonstrated in tests of international level.

There are three types of schools in Canada: public, Catholic and private boarding schools. The latter option is chosen by only 5% of students. The remaining 95% enter public secondary schools in Canada or in Catholic schools. Also, regardless of the type of educational institution, students are given a choice - to study in English or in French, because Canada has two official languages.

One if the most populat study program in Canada for international students is International Baccalaureate

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program (DP) is an educational program taught in one of three languages ​​(English, French or Spanish). This program prepares graduates for admission to the best universities in the world.

International Baccalaureate is a recognized leader in international educational programs. It is represented by three agreed programs for students from 3 to 19 years old:

• Primary Years Program (PYP) for children aged 5 to 11;
• a Middle Years Program (MYP) for children aged 11 to 16;
• High School Diploma Program (IB) for students aged 16-19.

The IB program includes:

• six subjects for compulsory study;
• extended essay (scientific thesis) up to 4000 words;
• compulsory subject - Theory of Knowledge (combined course of various disciplines and skills of practical application of theoretical knowledge in life).

Students who enter best schools and colleges with IB are advised to spend 150 hours developing creative skills, fitness (sports) and charitable activities (environmental protection, charitable aid).

Each subject is evaluated on a seven point system, with 7 being the highest point. An additional three points can be earned for an excellent thesis (essay) and for a project on the Theory of Knowledge. 45 points is the maximum possible result that a student can get while studying under the Diploma program. To obtain an International Baccalaureate Diploma, a student must score a minimum of 24 points.

However, there are some issues due to which a student may be refused a Diploma, despite the points they have earned. This is non-participation in the program of creative, sports and spiritual development (CAS), copying other people's ideas, unfulfilled thesis.

On the other hand, there are certain conditions that allow a student to receive a Diploma, despite his possible failures in any disciplines: successful passing of exams for knowledge of the mother tongue and one foreign language, as well as the fulfillment of other additional requirements of the program, gives the candidate the right to receive a Bilingual Diploma. education.

The student has the right to study not the entire list of required subjects and may refuse to participate in some of the compulsory school events, not attend a course in the Theory of Knowledge, or not write a thesis. In this case, the student will not receive a Diploma, but he will be issued a certificate with the results of his success in each of the subjects studied. Such a certificate is nothing more than a statement of payment by a student for exams and a statement of grades with the results of these exams. Such a certificate is issued to all students at the end of the course.

• International students with a 10-year schooling experience can enroll in Canada's 2-year IB program, an exemplary academic and language preparatory pathway. This IB certificate is recognized universally, enabling graduates to pursue higher education in Canada and other global destinations

The International Baccalaureate is a globally esteemed educational program. Top universities, including the Ivy League, MIT, Oxford, and more, value students with an IB qualification. The program instills independence, critical thinking, research capabilities, and proficient English language skills.

Furthermore, the IB provides:

• Engaging learning environments.

• Enhanced quality of education compared to mainstream schooling.

• Objective assessment through a two-tier grading system.

• Opportunities for scholarships and discounts.

• Language course credits.

• Flexibility with the International Baccalaureate Certificate for select subjects.

Nadya Shupta

Regional Marketing & Recruiting Manager at London International Academy (until 2021)

What aspects and criteria do parents consider when choosing a school, in addition to academic success?

Accommodation conditions, sports opportunities, catering and additional clubs and clubs organized by the school, proximity to the school of residences or host families are very important.

The IB curriculum is classified into six subject groups. Students are expected to choose one from each of the first five groups and an additional one from any group. Of these, a minimum of three subjects should be at the advanced level.

Over 150 countries acknowledge the value of the IB diploma, with university admissions criteria varying by nation. For instance:

• UK: British universities require specific IB scores based on the desired program.

• U.S.: An IB degree is a strong advantage for admissions, though some institutions might require additional assessments.

Canada: While Canada lacks a centralized admission process, most establishments acknowledge IB scores.

Canada, with its vibrant culture and top-tier education system, is an optimal choice for international students. Its bilingual foundation appeals to those keen on mastering English and French.

Moreover, Canadian boarding schools offer pathways to esteemed colleges and universities, like the University of Toronto and McGill University. A Canadian education enhances a student's global employment prospects.

In conclusion, for students looking to blend challenging coursework with international exposure, IB in Canada is the ideal choice. Not only does it prepare them for the world's best universities, but it also fosters personal and academic growth. The IB in Canada fees might vary, but the investment promises a return in the form of world-class education and unparalleled opportunities.

The International Baccalaureate (IB) program, recognized globally for its rigorous curriculum and holistic educational approach, is offered by numerous schools across Canada. However, the costs associated with pursuing the IB can vary substantially based on the type of school, its location, and whether the student is domestic or international.

Public schools in Canada that offer the IB program typically charge minimal fees for domestic students, as the majority of educational expenses are subsidized by the government. However, there might be additional costs specific to the IB, such as examination fees, which as of my last update in 2021, could range from CAD 100 to CAD 200 per exam, and an IB diploma registration fee. Overall, while the IB program in a public school setting is considerably affordable for Canadian residents, it's important to account for these additional expenses that are unique to the program.

For international students attending public schools, the fees can be significantly higher. Tuition for international students can range anywhere from CAD 12,000 to CAD 25,000 or more per academic year. On top of this, there are the aforementioned IB-specific fees. Additionally, some public schools might charge extra for international students taking the IB program, given its intensive nature and the additional resources it demands.

Private institutions in Canada offering the IB program usually have higher tuition fees, reflecting their infrastructure, faculty qualifications, and additional services. These fees can range widely, from CAD 20,000 to upwards of CAD 60,000 annually. While private institutions may offer scholarships or financial aid packages, it's essential to research each school's fee structure and potential hidden costs.

In summary, while the International Baccalaureate is a prestigious program that provides students with a world-class education, it's crucial to understand the associated costs in Canada. These can vary based on the type of school, the student's residency status, and the specific fees tied to the IB program itself. As always, thorough research and direct communication with prospective schools can provide clarity on expected expenses.

The IB (International Baccalaureate) Program is an educational program developed in Switzerland and offered at institutions around the world. It is designed for high school students and provides a more in-depth and international education.

The IB program focuses on the development of critical thinking, research skills and international understanding. It also offers a wider range of subjects and requires independent research papers.

The requirements for admission to the IB program in Canada may vary slightly from school to school, but typically include age, as the IB program is designed for high school students; academic preparation; interviews and references (in some cases, schools may interview prospective students and ask for teacher recommendations), and language proficiency. Schools may require tests such as IELTS or TOEFL for international students if English is not their first language.

The IB program uses a grading scale from 1 to 7, with 7 being the highest grade. To earn the IB Diploma, students must achieve a certain number of points and successfully complete program components such as EE and CAS.

"CAS" is an acronym for "Creativity, Activity, Service" and represents one of the three required components of the IB program. This component is designed to encourage students to develop versatile skills and to become active and civic-minded. The goal of CAS is to develop in students a balance between academic learning and personal development. As part of the IB program, students are required to complete a certain number of hours in each of the three categories and maintain a portfolio in which they document their achievements and experiences in these areas.

Students typically choose six subjects, including Language and Literature, Second Language, Human and Society, Science, Mathematics, and one subject from Art and Design. The program also includes required components of CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service), TOK (Theory of Knowledge) and EE (Extended Essay).

Studying in the IB program provides students with many benefits that can have a significant impact on their personal and professional development. Here are some of the major benefits of studying in the IB program: international recognition, development of critical thinking, international understanding, university readiness, better chances of admission, development of leadership skills, and personal development. All of these benefits make the IB program attractive to students seeking a high quality education and diverse development.

In Canada, most universities recognize the IB diploma and accept students who have completed this program. Below is a list of some of the renowned universities in Canada that recognize the IB diploma: University of Toronto: The University of Toronto recognizes the IB diploma and considers it a plus for admission. McGill University: McGill University, located in Montreal, also values students with an IB diploma and may provide additional points for admission. University of British Columbia: This Vancouver-based university includes the IB Diploma in its list of recognized credentials. University of Waterloo: The University of Waterloo accepts students with an IB diploma and may offer bonus points for admission. Queen's University: Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario, also recognizes the IB Diploma and may provide benefits to students with this qualification. University of Calgary: This university in Alberta actively welcomes students with an IB diploma and may offer extra points for admission. Dalhousie University: Dalhousie University, located in Halifax, Nova Scotia, also recognizes the IB diploma and considers it for admission.

Completion of an IB program can open up many career opportunities and provide graduates with a number of advantages in the global job market. One of the main pathways after completing the IB program is university admission. Many universities in different countries recognize the IB Diploma and provide additional points or admission advantages to students who have completed the program. The IB Diploma is also internationally recognized, making graduates more mobile in the global job market. They can consider work opportunities in different countries and in international organizations.

Yes, international students can enroll in the IB (International Baccalaureate) program in Canada. Canada welcomes international students and has many schools that provide the IB program for international students.