Brief: The International Baccalaureate Diploma System

The IB (International Baccalaureate) Diploma is a holistic educational system focused on the IB Learner profile with a mission statement of building socially and ethically conscious highschool graduates prepared for university studies. (Phew! -Long sentence!)

Besides a compulsory 6 subjects, the IB also demands that students also dedicate time to CAS (which in IB laymen terms, stand for Creative, Action, and Service extracurricular activities). Participation and demonstration of leadership skills (from a range of commitments in the arts, athletics and community service) is a vital aspect of CAS.

Pros

(for eager parents) Holistic, rigorous, demanding with a good support system from the IB organising body.

Graduates tend to feel that the IB is an experience they're happy to struggle through.

Universities see IB grads as well prepared for university study and life - the IB diploma is very indicative of a well-rounded individual.

Cons

Heavy workload both in school and after school.

It's comprehensiveness (in the 6 subject areas) and language demands may not suit students with narrower interests (eg. those who plan to solely pursue the arts).