IB Overview

Diploma Programme

A rigorous, balanced, and internationally recognized programme for students aged 16–19.

Duration: 2 Years
Grades: 11–12
Language: English

What is the IB Diploma Programme?

The IB Diploma Programme (DP) is a two-year academic programme that develops students’ intellectual, personal, emotional, and social skills. It is designed to prepare students for success at university and beyond through inquiry-based learning and strong academic standards.

  • Internationally recognized qualification
  • Broad and balanced curriculum
  • Strong focus on critical thinking and research
  • Community engagement and personal development

Programme Structure

Students study six subjects across different disciplines, plus the DP Core: Theory of Knowledge (TOK), the Extended Essay (EE), and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS).

6
Subjects
A broad selection across groups
3
Core
TOK • EE • CAS
HL/SL
Levels
Higher Level & Standard Level

Typical selection: 3 subjects at Higher Level (HL) and 3 at Standard Level (SL).

Need guidance choosing subjects? Our counselling team supports students in selecting pathways aligned with university goals.

Subjects

The DP offers subjects across groups. Availability may vary by campus and year.

Group 1: Studies in Language & Literature

  • Language A: Language & Literature

Group 2: Language Acquisition

  • Arabic B

Group 3: Individuals & Societies

  • Business Management
  • History in English

Group 4: Sciences

  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Physics

Group 5: Mathematics

  • Mathematics: Analysis & Approaches (AA)
  • Mathematics: Applications & Interpretation (AI)
Note: Actual subject offerings and levels (HL/SL) are confirmed annually based on student interest and staffing.

Assessment

IB assessment combines external examinations with internally assessed coursework.

How Students Are Assessed

  • External Assessment: IB examinations (typically at the end of the programme)
  • Internal Assessment (IA): Coursework marked by teachers and moderated externally
  • Core Components: TOK, EE, and CAS requirements

Assessment formats vary by subject and may include written exams, investigations, exhibition, oral work, portfolios, and essays.

Typical Timeline

Year 1
Foundations, skill-building, first IAs & EE, CAS projects, English oral assesments and TOK exhibition
Year 2
Complete IAs, submit EE, Arabic orals, TOK essay, final revision
Final Exams
IB examination session and final awarding of results
Our focus: steady progress, clear deadlines, and supportive feedback throughout the programme.

Core Requirements

The DP Core helps students connect learning across disciplines and develop essential life skills.

Theory of Knowledge (TOK)

Encourages critical reflection on knowledge, perspectives, and ways of knowing across subjects.

Extended Essay (EE)

An independent, supervised research paper that builds academic writing and investigation skills.

Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)

A balanced programme of experiences that supports personal growth and community engagement.

Students receive structured guidance and checkpoints to plan, document, and complete TOK, EE, and CAS successfully.

IB Handbook

Download the IB Handbook for key information about the Diploma Programme at our school.

Download

Click below to download the IB Handbook.

Download IB Handbook

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers for parents and students.

What is the IB Diploma Programme (DP)?

The IB Diploma Programme (DP) is a two-year academic programme that develops students’ intellectual, personal, emotional, and social skills. It prepares students for success at university and beyond through inquiry-based learning and strong academic standards.

How many subjects does a student take?

Students typically take six subjects, usually three at Higher Level (HL) and three at Standard Level (SL), plus TOK, EE, and CAS.

What are the DP Core components?

The DP Core includes Theory of Knowledge (TOK), the Extended Essay (EE), and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS).

How are students assessed in the DP?

IB assessment combines external examinations with internally assessed coursework. External assessment includes IB examinations, while internal assessment (IA) is coursework marked by teachers and moderated externally. TOK, EE, and CAS requirements are also included.

What is the typical timeline across the two years?

Year 1 focuses on foundations, skill-building, first IAs & EE, CAS projects, English oral assesments and TOK exhibition. Year 2 includes completing IAs, submitting EE, Arabic orals, TOK essay, and final revision, followed by the final IB examination session and awarding of results.