International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme
WaPrep is one of only four IB-authorized private schools in Washington State, offering the full IB Diploma Programme. The IB requires students to study subjects in depth from both American and international perspectives, with assessment built on essays, research papers, and oral presentations rather than multiple-choice formats. Graduates are also eligible for advanced placement credit and merit-based scholarships that many universities reserve exclusively for IB Diploma recipients.
What Makes IB Different
The IB Diploma Programme is not simply a collection of advanced courses. It is a fundamentally different approach to learning, one built around the development of independent thinkers who are prepared to engage with complex ideas across disciplines.
Depth of Study Over Survey Coverage
Every IB course is designed around mastery of a subject rather than broad exposure. Students engage with content at a level of rigor that closely mirrors the expectations of first-year university coursework, developing genuine expertise rather than surface-level familiarity.
Assessment Through Writing and Analysis
IB examinations are built on essays, research papers, oral presentations, and laboratory investigations. Students are expected to construct arguments, evaluate evidence, and synthesize ideas across disciplines. Multiple-choice formats represent a minimal fraction of IB assessment.
American and International Perspectives
IB students approach each discipline through both American and international frameworks, developing the global awareness and cross-cultural analytical skills that distinguish them in university admissions and throughout their academic and professional careers.
University Recognition and Advanced Standing
Colleges and universities worldwide recognize the IB curriculum for its emphasis on critical thinking and academic preparation. IB Diploma graduates frequently receive advanced placement credit, and many institutions reserve scholarship opportunities specifically for IB graduates.
IB Students Get Into Better Universities
Research consistently demonstrates that IB Diploma graduates are admitted to competitive universities at significantly higher rates than the general applicant pool. According to a survey conducted by the International Insight Research Group and the IB Organization, these advantages are measurable and consistent across institution types.
Ivy League Acceptance Advantage
IB students are admitted to Ivy League institutions at up to 18% higher rates than the general applicant pool, a substantial advantage at schools where overall acceptance rates fall below 7%.
Top-Ranked US Universities
At other highly ranked US universities, IB Diploma graduates enjoy acceptance rates up to 22% higher than non-IB applicants, reflecting consistent recognition of the programme's academic rigor.
Top 20 UK Universities
A study by the Higher Education Statistics Agency found that IB students are 57% more likely to attend a top 20 UK university than students who pursued other pre-university qualifications.
Sources: International Insight Research Group / IB Organization survey; Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA); IB Organization college acceptance data.
The Six IB Subject Groups
Every IB Diploma student takes courses across six subject groups, three at Higher Level and three at Standard Level. This structure ensures a genuinely well-rounded academic foundation while allowing depth in areas of individual strength and interest.
Studies in Language and Literature
Literary analysis, language in cultural context, and advanced writing in English, Chinese, or Spanish.
Language Acquisition
A second language studied through communication and cultural understanding. Spanish, Mandarin, or English as an additional language.
Individuals and Societies
History, economics, global politics, and business management. Students analyze human systems from local to global scale.
Sciences
Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Computer Science, and Sports and Health Science. Emphasis on experimental design and scientific inquiry.
Mathematics
Analysis and Approaches or Analysis and Interpretation, at Standard or Higher Level. Builds toward calculus and advanced quantitative reasoning.
The Arts
Visual Art, Music, or an additional course from Groups 1 through 5. Students who elect the arts complete rigorous portfolio-based assessments.
The Three Core Requirements
In addition to the six subject groups, all IB Diploma candidates must complete three core requirements that distinguish the programme from any other pre-university curriculum. These components develop the research skills, philosophical depth, and civic character that universities and employers recognize in IB graduates.
Theory of Knowledge (TOK)
A rigorous course in epistemology examining how we know what we know across disciplines. Students produce a formal essay and deliver an oral presentation, engaging with questions of knowledge, evidence, and perspective at a university level.
Extended Essay (EE)
An independent research paper of up to 4,000 words on a topic of the student's choosing. The Extended Essay develops the scholarly research, argumentation, and writing skills that universities expect from incoming students from day one.
Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)
Students complete a structured program of creative, physical, and community service engagement totaling 150 hours. CAS develops character, leadership, and a sense of civic responsibility alongside academic achievement.
I am pleased to announce that Washington Preparatory School has been authorized by the International Baccalaureate Organization to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, starting in the Fall of 2020. This authorization reflects the commitment of our faculty, students, and families to academic excellence at the highest level.
Want to Learn More About IB at WaPrep?
Schedule a tour and speak with our Head of School about how the IB programme works and what it means for your child's future.