New heads
Information
- IB learner profile [151 kb, PDF]
- Things you should know [1.45 mb, PDF]
Frequently asked questions
What does implementation of the programmes mean in terms of additional resources (staff, time and money)?
This really varies from region to region and from school to school. Please contact your IB regional office who will be able to evaluate the implications of implementation on a case-by-case basis.
What is the IB’s relationship with schools?
The IB remains fully independent from IB World Schools in pursuing its goals and activities, and is not responsible for schools’ actions. IB World Schools are all separate legal entities from the IB; they are not members of a franchise, corporate group or formal partnership. The contractual relationship with IB World Schools is defined in the Rules for authorized schools. This is a standard form that sets out the duties of schools in implementing IB programmes.
The IB does not own, operate or manage any schools. Instead, it works in cooperation with schools around the world to offer its three programmes. These IB World Schools:
- share the mission and commitment of the IB to quality international education
- have been authorized by the IB to offer one or more of the three programmes
- play an active and supporting role in the worldwide community of IB World Schools
- share their knowledge and experience of IB programmes
- are committed to the professional development of teachers.
Are IB World Schools mainly private international schools?
Over 50% of IB students attend state-funded schools. All IB World Schools must commit to sharing the mission of the IB, which aims to create a better world through education.
What sort of student is an IB student?
IB students are internationally minded, which means they are:
- inquirers
- knowledgeable
- thinkers
- communicators
- principled
- open-minded
- caring
- risk-takers
- balanced
- reflective
More information on the IB learner profile.
Is it possible to implement an IB programme simultaneously with another board, such as University of Cambridge examinations?
Yes, the IB does not require that IB World Schools implement one or more of its programmes exclusively. Schools may simultaneously implement programmes of other educational institutions.
What is the annual increase in fees that IB World Schools must pay to the IB?
The finance committee and the Council of Foundation evaluate the fees that schools pay to the IB every year and any increment is communicated to schools for implementation in the following financial year.
The fee structure is currently under revision in order to make it transparent, understandable and so that it meets the needs of schools, students, parents and the IB. A working group is considering and consulting with heads on the principles that should underpin a fee structure. The Council of Foundation has now approved these principles and further work to determine a new fee structure is being undertaken for implementation in September 2007 onwards.
Are any credits given by universities to IB graduates?
Many universities worldwide have recognition policies for IB graduates and some universities award college credits to IB graduates who earn over a certain amount of points. For information about a specific university’s recognition policy please go to the IB public website www.ibo.org/universities.
