International Baccalaureat

What is the International Baccalaureate?

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Program is a rigorous two-year pre-university course of studies, taught in Grade 11 & 12 (Grade 10 is the pre-IB/Honours Program).

IB provides a well-rounded education thus it meets the needs of highly motivated, academically successful secondary school students by promoting: international understanding, responsible citizenship, academic excellence and self-directed learning.

The IB Diploma (full IB) is obtained by completing 3 higher level (HL) and 3 standard level (SL) courses (one in each of 6 categories). In addition, candidates must take "Theory of Knowledge" course, "Extended Essay" and complete 150 hours in CAS (Creativity, Action, Service). The IB diploma is a balanced curriculum, which may be used for university: admission, scholarships and advanced credit (depending on the level of success and university requirements)
The IB Certificate (partial IB) student takes some (minimum of two) of their courses in the IB program and some in the regular

Alberta curriculum classes. Students who meet the university requirements in an HL course may receive advanced credit.

Who Should Take IB?

IB students are critical and compassionate thinkers who are informed participants in local and world affairs. These students value the shared humanity that binds all people. IB students are mature, motivated, accountable students who love to learn and have demonstrated previous academic success. These students are planning on continuing their education at a post-secondary institution. This program is not intended to be only for the academic elite.

How Is IB Unique At Diefenbaker?

Our mode of delivery gives students a flexible schedule resulting in greater freedom while increasing student time-management skills. We use CAS as a philosophical base for the program. CAS participation is required of all IB students (Pre-IB, partial and full).

What Alumni Say.

Nerissa Tyson: IB Diploma 2000, B.Sc. 2004, University of Calgary Medical School Class of 2007 – " IB prepared me for university better than any other program could have … my goals have been achieved using the life skills and experience I gained in IB."

Laura Wall: IB Diploma 2000, B.Sc. Mechanical Engineering 2005 - " I'm very glad that I took the opportunity to do the IB program. It really improved my ability to think critically and work efficiently. I enjoyed learning the enriched material that was available to me in this program. My university gave me credit for five courses (a full semester) because of my IB diploma. This gave me the flexibility to add a five course minor in entrepreneurship to my engineering degree and still finish my program at the same time as everyone else. My IB diploma is an accomplishment that I'll always be proud of as a sign of my dedication and love of learning."

IB Courses Offered

• English A1 HL
• History HL
• Chemistry HL
• Math SL
• French B SL or Chinese B SL **
• Physics SL *
• Biology SL *
• Visual Arts SL *
• Theatre Arts SL *

* Full IB Diploma students may select only one of these.

** A student with strong previous knowledge of any second modern language may complete this component as a self-directed course (A1 - SL level) resulting in a Bi-Lingual Diploma)

How To Apply To The IB Program At Diefenbaker

Diefenbaker is the designated IB school in Area II for the Calgary Board of Education (see map at CBE web site). To apply – download the Application Form and have your present school send it to the IB Coordinator. Late applicants will also need to complete the personal preference transfer process.

IB Brochure

Diefenbaker has an active IB program. Please click here to learn more.

Want to know what past and present IB students have to say? (pdf)