3 Reasons Why the IB Programme Increases a Student’s Chances of Getting Into their University of Choice

One of the biggest questions you may have as a parent about your child’s future is whether your child should go to a university and which one to choose?

If a family is particularly invested in the importance of their child’s education, this is a topic that comes up early in their academic journey. 

With so many programmes claiming to set their students up for future success, it can be difficult to navigate and choose the right one. 

Arguably, one of the most well-known programmes is the International Baccalaureate programme. But what is it and could it help your child get accepted into the university of their dreams? 

Read on or click on each link to jump to a specific section.

• What is the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme?
  • Globally recognised and internationally oriented education
  • Well-known for producing excellent university candidates
  • A programme which fosters community and participation
• How does XCL World Academy prepare its students for university?

What is the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme?

Created in Switzerland in 1968 for internationally mobile students in international schools, the IB is now offered in 5,000+ schools across 150+ countries.

The IB is the fastest growing curriculum framework and has gained popularity for setting high standards and having an emphasis on creative and critical thinking. 

Its focus is to provide an education that challenges students interculturally, producing understanding and respectful world citizens.

Research suggests that IB students are more likely to pursue and complete undergraduate degrees and graduate programmes, compared to their peers.

Some universities favour applicants who have completed the IB Diploma programme, and successful students are often accepted into the highest-ranking schools worldwide.

In this article, we will discuss three reasons why the IB programme increases a student’s chances of being accepted into a good university.

It is a globally recognised and internationally oriented education.

Since the IB is an internationally recognised framework of education, universities worldwide know that IB students have experienced a well-rounded academic journey that empathises critical and analytical thinking. 

The IB provides a seamless progression of life skills and learning that supports students through every stage of their development and prepares them to excel in any university programme. 

Focusing on each student holistically, IB programmes address not only children’s intellectual development but also their social, emotional and physical progress. As a result, IB students are usually better prepared to face challenging topics and vigorous workloads.

The IB learning environment allows students to make real-world connections and develop an awareness of different cultural perspectives. They become more empathetic learners who know how to express themselves confidently.

Students also learn how to be resilient, adaptable and curious. All these qualities are essential real-life skills that will help students to succeed in school and beyond.

Additionally, the IB framework encourages students to develop into ‘all-rounders’ of great character.

Universities will appreciate a student who can communicate interculturally and be sensitive and aware of the complex needs of a diverse community. This not only increases their chances of getting into university in their home country but also in the highest-ranking schools worldwide. 

Unsurprisingly, the IB programme is very popular among expat families looking for a well-rounded international education for their children, especially if they often move from country to country. 

Students exposed to an IB learning environment are often better prepared to be active participants in a global society, and, on a smaller scale, within a post-secondary institution.

The programme is well-known for producing excellent university candidates.

The IB Diploma programme is known for its rigorous curriculum and high expectations. The curriculum focuses not only on academic rigour but also encourages students to develop skills, attitudes and perspectives needed to navigate university and life beyond school.

IB students are usually more independent and have the ability to handle the pressure that post-secondary studies demand. 

According to the IBO, the IB programme helps students develop the following essential life skills:

• Time management skills and a strong sense of self-motivation, 
• A keen interest in civic engagement,
• Notable academic ability,
• Strong research and writing skills,
• Critical thinking abilities,
• An international outlook.

The IB also claims that their assessments measure not only students’ content knowledge but also their skills and abilities.

They also note that the average scores of students have remained consistent over the years, and in comparison, with various other qualifications the IB programme remains an impressive achievement on a university application.

It is a programme which fosters community and participation.

While grades are important, many universities look for applicants who can offer more than that. 

Universities and Colleges often favour students who have participated in extra-curricular activities such as sports, clubs and volunteering. 

The IB programme is designed for not only academic success but also community participation. This suggests that they are more likely to be engaged in various aspects of university life.

According to research by the IB programme, their students are more likely to participate in the:

• Student leadership activities,
• Working with university faculty on research projects,
• Finding opportunities to study in other countries,
• Tutoring other students,
• Taking part in voluntary and community service,
• Completing internships.

Students graduating with an IB Diploma can be appealing to universities and colleges because IB students are generally considered to be well-rounded individuals, with a higher potential to contribute not only to their academic studies but also to the university as a whole.

Overall, the IB programme will give your child the experience of a well-rounded education that is highly regarded by universities. It could potentially give your child an edge to gain acceptance into a highly competitive programme or university.

Post-secondary institutions will place value on students’ ability to think critically in a cross-cultural setting, their exposure to problem-solving in global contexts and their confidence in working independently in challenging situations. 

The IB programme sets students up for success because not only will students learn the necessary knowledge/content (what to learn), but emphasis is also placed on how to learn.

How does XCL World Academy prepare its students for university?

At XCL World Academy (XWA), we believe in setting a child up for success, not just academically, but also with the life skills that they will need in university and beyond.

We recognise that every student is unique, and their aspirations are different.

With that in mind, we offer a variety of graduation pathways such as the IB Diploma Programme, the WASC-accredited High School Diploma, and starting in 2024, we will also be offering the American Advanced Placement qualifications (APs). 

From an early age, we encourage our students to develop their critical thinking skills, make informed decisions and develop an independent mindset, while also equipping them with the knowledge and skills they need to realise their aspirations. 

Our students benefit from a rigorous curriculum that develops their global perspective and teaches them not only what to learn, but more importantly, how to learn.

In addition, we offer college and career counselling starting at Grade 8. 

Our bespoke University & Career Guidance Programme prepares students to think about their future in an increasingly connected world. Through our highly experienced University Counsellors, students receive personalised guidance on post-school options and admissions to colleges and universities worldwide, including top universities across various disciplines.

Our IB Diploma scores and results place XWA students comfortably above the international average each year. We meet each student where they are and help them achieve their full potential. For the second year running, XWA students have achieved an admirable 100% IB Diploma pass rate and a perfect score of 45!

If you would like to learn more about how XWA’s academic programme could be the right choice for your child, please feel free to contact us to discuss your child’s unique needs and desires. Our Admissions Team will be delighted to help you find the school that represents the best fit for your family.