International Baccalaureate Curriculum 2025 Guide

The International Baccalaureate (IB) is a globally recognised educational framework aimed at holistic development which involves intellectual, social and cultural learning. Majorly, it focuses on inquiry-based learning, critical thinking and evolving long-term thinking patterns. Let us now look at the four primary programmes offered by the International Baccalaureate Curriculum:

● Primary Years Programme (PYP) — ages 3 to 12
● Middle Years Programme (MYP) — ages 11 to 16
● Diploma Programme (DP) — ages 16 to 19
● Career-related Programme (CP) — ages 16 to 19

IB Schools are authorised to offer these courses to students who look beyond just curriculum level education.

Why Choose IB?

Below are some of the most prominent advantages of the courses offered by IB programmes:

1) Global-level recognition
The IB education system is known for its international recognition. Its diploma is widely known, accepted and respected by global universities across the world.

2) Focus on skill-based learning
Focus remains on research, inquiry, critical thinking and communication. The base is independent learning while working on self-development and reflection.

3) Continuous learning and support
IB schools constantly review and update their curriculum to ensure that it aligns with global trends, deep research and latest teaching practices. Students take help for difficult subjects for added support. For instance, students interested in medical field may hire IB physics tutor and IB biology tutor.

4) Intercultural perspective
Students come from diverse cultural backgrounds and foster a global-level mindset that allows them to appreciate multiple perspectives.

5) Encourages personal growth
The approach to lifelong learning results in students learning about different perspectives. The core (TOK, EE, CAS) encourages deeper thinking and personal growth. IB syllabus is designed to help students gain practical knowledge.

IB Overview: Main IB Programmes

1. IB PYP – Primary Years Programme (Age 3–12)

Under this programme, students are encouraged to take ownership of their learning from an early age. Here, conceptual understanding is key to work around transdisciplinary themes (for instance, “Who We Are,” “How the World Works,” etc.). The focus remains on the academic, social and emotional growth of the child.

2. IB MYP – Middle Years Programme (Age 11–16)

The structured framework allows students to build a connection with the real world. IB subjects are grouped into different categories such as arts, mathematics, design, physical education, sociology and other subjects with global context. It also includes assessments featuring tasks, projects, reflections and demands students to work on a personal project in the final year. The programme part of International Baccalaureate Curriculum also emphasizes on service - for instance, encouraging students to engage in social service or community building.

3. IB DP – Diploma Programme (Age 16–19)

The flagship programme associated with IB spans two years and culminates in external exams. Let’s breakdown how it works:

Structure and Requirements: IB students select one subject from the five different groups and elect the sixth subject either from the Arts or another allowed discipline. To summarise:

1. Studies in language and literature
2. Language acquisition
3. Individuals & societies
4. Sciences
5. Mathematics
6. The arts or elective from groups 1–5

The three core components consist of Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Extended Essay (EE) and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS). Next, the assessment is a mix of:

a) External assessment (exams, essays, etc.)
b) Internal assessment (oral work, labs, projects)
The eligibility criteria revolves around students receiving grades from 1 to 7 for each subject. The three core components (TOK + EE) can contribute up to 3 bonus points. The maximum or expected count is 45 points.

4. IB CP – Career-related Programme (Age 16–19)

This hybrid programme combines both academic subjects (from DP) with career- related studies. Its four components include personal & professional skills, service learning, language development, and reflective projects. It is designed for IB students who want to narrow down their career path while retaining a broader IB framework. It is recommended to look for MYP tutor for professional help with IB curriculum.

IB Subjects & Syllabus

The IB subjects are divided into groups that you can pick from the Diploma Programme:

Group 1: Studies in Language & Literature

It’s the first language with literature and language options including:

Language A: Literature
Language A: Language & Literature
Literature & Performance

Group 2: Language Acquisition

This concept involves learning a second language that allows understanding different cultures.

Below are the following options:
● Language B
● Ab inito
● Classical Languages

Group 3: Individuals & Societies

The subjects include Global Politics, Economics, History, Geography, Psychology and Business Management.

Group 4: Sciences

Based on real-world applications, the subjects include Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Computer Science and Design Technology.

Group 5: Mathematics

Includes logical and analytical thinking such as:
Mathematics: Analysis & Approaches (AA) – focused on algebra and calculus.
Mathematics: Applications & Interpretation (AI) – focused on practical applications and data.

Group 6: The Arts / Electives

Emphasizes on creative expression including Visual Arts, Music, Theatre, Dance, Film.

Difference between External vs Internal Assessment

Below are the major differences between standardised exams and ongoing projects and evaluations:

Conclusion

To choose the right IB school, speak to your career advisor for a quick overview of IB programmes offered by each institution. The IB is known for its comprehensive IB syllabus. Students are advised to check the school’s average IB Diploma score, University Placement and extended essay and TOK (Theory of Knowledge) support.

Remember, good IB schools provide well-equipped facilities such as high-end science and art labs, multicultural environments, digital learning tools, counselling and libraries. Lastly, check if the school is IB-accredited by the official International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO). We recommend looking for IB tutors for complete academic support. At Baccalaureate Classes, you will find professional assistance for understanding IB curriculum. Contact us at Baccalaureate Classes through WhatsApp for getting in touch with experienced and well trained IB online tutors.