International Baccalaureate

For more information on International Programs, contact the official IB website.

You must be a high school student, but your school may require a certain academic standing or GPA before you are allowed to participate. Check with your counselor's office or school district.

You must take an exam which is graded on a seven-point scale. Most colleges and universities accept a score of 4 or 5 for Higher Level IB exams. You must take an exam in each of the six subject areas and earn a total of 24 total points to receive the pre-college diploma. Students not on the diploma track can earn a certificate, however the majority of colleges and universities in Minnesota will only award college credit for Higher Level IB exams.

Pre-college diploma students also must complete the community service Creativity, Action, and Service program, an extended essay of up to 4,000 words, and the Theory of Knowledge course.

If you're interested in a specific college, be sure to ask admissions about their IB acceptance policy. Acceptance and transfer of credits varies by college or university.

Not all colleges or universities award college credit for IB exams, and those that do might not accept all IB subjects. There are also instances where credit acceptance varies depending on the subject.

It is free for students to enroll in the IB diploma program, however college credit can only be earned by receiving a passing score (as determined by the college) on a fee-based IB exam. IB exams are free for qualified Minnesota students who demonstrate financial need; all other students pay $20-80 per exam.

The class is taught by a high school teacher.

The class is held at your high school just like the rest of your classes.