IB: International Baccalaureate in Spain for international students

International Baccalaureate provides the foreign students with the unique opportunity to enroll in any prestigious university of the world. Special programs are designed for students aged from 3 to 18 years old, and include all stages of primary and secondary education. The IB diploma is useful not only for students who have decided to enroll in a foreign university. Studying at the international Baccalaureate forces students to discuss global world problems, study independently, think critically and creatively approach problem solving.

In the IB program, students learn to think critically, conduct research, and be open to the world and other cultures. They need to study 3-4 subjects at an advanced level - about 240 academic hours. The remaining subjects are studied in the amount of 150 academic hours.

Academic performance is assessed by both school teachers and external examiners. Some tasks are sent directly to external examiners for verification: exams, essays, assignments. Others are first checked by the teachers of the school, and then sent to the examiners for control: studies in mathematics and sciences, oral assignments from the language course, projects, artistic productions and some others.

For each completed course, the students receive from 1 (minimum grade) to 7 points (maximum grade). The final score is equal to the sum of all the grades received. Students who score at least 24 out of 45 possible points receive an IB diploma.

1. Gateway to World's Top Universities

An IB diploma from Spain equips students with the knowledge and skills essential for gaining admission into leading universities globally, including institutions in the USA, Canada, Great Britain, and beyond.

2. Holistic Personal Development

IB graduates from Spain emerge as individuals with a wide-ranging perspective and a propensity for independent thinking. Their adaptability quotient is high, making it seamless for them to adjust to life in various countries.

3. Proficiency in Multiple Languages

Mastering at least two languages becomes an indispensable skill for those envisioning further studies and eventually working in an international milieu.

The IB curriculum in Spain spans through different educational phases:

• Primary School Program: Catering to students aged 5-11 years

• Middle School Program: Designed for students aged 11-16 years

• High School Program: Meant for students aged 16-19 years.

Each student embarks on a journey through six subjects, selecting one from each of the five main groups and an additional one from groups 1, 2, 3, 4, or 6. It's mandatory for students to delve deep into at least three subjects, while the remaining three align with the secondary school standards.

The course duration is demarcated as 150 hours for each standard subject:

• Group 1: Languages A1, typically a student's native language with 80 options available.

• Group 2: A second language, building upon the foundational language from Group A1.

• Group 3: Social Studies, encompassing subjects like philosophy, economics, psychology, law, IT, history, and more.

• Group 4: Experimental Sciences like physics, chemistry, biology, and environmental studies.

• Group 5: Mathematics, offering standard to advanced levels. Computer technology is an auxiliary option.

• Group 6: Arts and Creativity, inclusive of subjects like painting, music, and drama. Students can swap these for options from Groups 2, 3, 4, or computer technology from Group 5.

Additionally, each student is required to author a thesis of 4000 words on a chosen subject, fostering research skills.

The CAS segment (Creativity, Action, Service) is an auxiliary component, nudging students towards community services, sports, and artistic endeavors.

Venturing into the IB Diploma Program, a comprehensive two-year curriculum, demands dedication. In most private schools in Spain, the medium of instruction is primarily English, catering to those who prefer not to study in Spanish.

Securing a spot in an IB high school in Spain entails:

• A recommendation letter from a previous school's tutor

• A motivational essay or introduction from the applicant

• Academic transcripts from the last 2-3 years

• Successfully clearing an interview

• Proficiency in Spanish and/or English, preferably at C1 level but at least B2.

Jamie Perfect

Director of the International School of Bremen

Is it difficult for a talented student to get a discount? What are the average scholarship sizes?

Talented students can often access scholarships or financial aid. The exact discounts or amounts can vary by school and individual situations and are awarded at the discretion of the Directors.

• Sotogrande International School

• SEK El Castillo International School, Madrid

• INNOVA INTERNATIONAL Colegio Base

• INNOVA INTERNATIONAL Ausias March

• Agora International School, Barcelona.

• Whether you're evaluating IB in Spain fees or seeking the best fit for your academic journey, Spain’s institutions stand ready to offer an enriching experience.

IB (International Baccalaureate) is a two-year international education program designed for students aged 16 to 19 years. It is the equivalent of secondary education, combining academic and practical components aimed at the comprehensive development of the individual.

There are many schools and educational institutions offering the IB program in Spain. This program can be offered by both private international schools and government institutions.

The IB program provides students with a wide choice of subjects, including languages and literature, humanities, science and mathematics, and art and design. Students select subjects from each group in accordance with the chosen profile.

Admission requirements may vary from school to school, but generally include successful completion of high school or equivalent education and successful completion of entrance examinations. Proof of English language proficiency is often also required.

Some schools provide scholarships or financial aid to students on a competitive basis. Therefore, it is recommended that you contact your specific school to inquire about available financial aid options.

The educational process in the IB program is focused on the development of critical thinking, research skills and the ability to work independently. Students learn to solve complex problems, analyze information, and develop research projects. The educational process also includes a mandatory course in Theory of Knowledge (TOK), which contributes to the development of critical analysis.

The IB program is assessed by both internal and external assessments. Internal teacher assessments include grades for coursework, laboratory work and projects. External grades are awarded by independent examiners for examinations at the end of each academic year.

To receive an IB Diploma, a student must successfully complete all required exams and other program requirements. Failing the exam may affect your IB Diploma, but you may be able to retake the exam.

The IB Diploma is recognized by many universities around the world. He demonstrates a high level of education and development of skills such as critical thinking, intercultural understanding and research skills. This can make it easier for you to get into prestigious schools and even allow you to get additional course credits and accelerated university studies.

Transferring to the IB program from another educational system is possible, but may require additional effort to align the curriculum and obtain the necessary credits. Schools typically have their own procedures for evaluating and accepting transfer students.