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Diploma Programme assessment
Philosophy
The International Baccalaureate (IB) assesses student work as direct evidence of achievement against the stated goals of the Diploma Programme courses.
The Diploma Programme goals provide students with:
- a broad and balanced, yet academically demanding, programme of study
- the development of critical-thinking and reflective skills
- the development of research skills
- the development of independent learning skills
- the development of intercultural understanding
- a globally recognized university entrance qualification.
Diploma Programme assessment procedures measure the extent to which students have mastered advanced academic skills in fulfilling these goals, for example:
- analysing and presenting information
- evaluating and constructing arguments
- solving problems creatively.
Basic skills are also assessed, including:
- retaining knowledge
- understanding key concepts
- applying standard methods.
In addition to academic skills, Diploma Programme assessment encourages an international outlook and intercultural skills where appropriate.
Assessment tasks are designed to support and encourage good classroom teaching and learning.
Student results are determined by performance against set standards, not by each student’s position in the overall rank order.
Useful links
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Diploma Programme assessment—Principles and practice [809 kb, PDF]
Exam schedules
External examinations for candidates for the IB diploma are given twice a year, in May and in November.
Examination schedules 2008 and 2009
Exam papers
Visit our new IB store to buy downloadable copies of past IB Diploma Programme examination papers and markschemes.