IB vs British vs American

Common questions

What does the IB Diploma usually include?

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme usually means six subject groups, plus Theory of Knowledge (a course about how we know things), an Extended Essay (a long independent research paper), and Creativity, Activity, Service (projects outside class).

How are A-Levels different from the IB Diploma?

British A-Levels (Advanced Level exams, typically ages 16–18) are fewer subjects, with heavy weight on external exams at the end.

How does the American high-school model record progress?

Semester credits build toward a High School Diploma. Many schools also offer Advanced Placement (AP) courses — optional college-level classes with external exams.

Are exam entry fees always included in tuition?

Ask whether exam entry fees are bundled or invoiced separately for IGCSE, A-Levels, IB Diploma exams, and AP exams. Also ask what capital, bus, and meal lines sit outside tuition.

When does switching curriculum get harder?

Children under 11 usually adapt across curriculums; from Grade / Year 10, check exam-cycle timing.