Diploma Programme curriculum
Programme model
The curriculum is modelled by a hexagon with six academic areas surrounding the three core requirements.
Over the course of the two-year programme, students:
- study six subjects chosen from the six subject groups
- complete an extended essay
- follow a theory of knowledge course (TOK)
- participate in creativity, action, service (CAS).
Normally:
- three of the six subjects are studied at higher level (courses representing 240 teaching hours)
- the remaining three subjects are studied at standard level (courses representing 150 teaching hours).
Subjects, other than languages, may be taught and examined in:
- English
- French
- Spanish.
Diploma Programme flyer
The flyer explains the unique learning opportunities that this programme provides to students. Download (146 kb, PDF) and print this flyer to distribute in your school community, or order packs from our online store.
Find out more
Read the Schools’ Guide to the Diploma Programme [788 kb, PDF]
Read A basis for practice: the Diploma Programme [164 kb, PDF]
Read A continuum of international education: the Primary Years Programme, the Middle Years Programme and the Diploma Programme [251 kb, PDF]
Programme standards and practices [168 kb, PDF].
Order IB publications relating to the Diploma Programme.
Examination papers and markschemes
Visit the IB store to buy downloadable copies of past IB Diploma Programme examination papers and markschemes.
Academic committee
Terms and conditions [292 kb, PDF]