Whatsapp

Transitioning form IGCSE to IBDP

 

Cambridge IGCSE is a popular choice amongst people in the age group of 14 to 16. Students of IGCSE can move to the IB diploma program after having completed their 10th grade.

IB diploma program is recognized by universities, especially in America, and it often helps in obtaining college credit as well.

There are certain things you should remember that will help you segue smoothly from IGCSE to IBDP. A student who is well-versed in the requirements of the IGCSE curriculum will find it relatively comfortable to deal with the IB curriculum and its workload.

The more clarity you have about the IBDP coursework the clearer the road map ahead will be.

Diploma:

  • 6 subjects
  • 3 HLs and 3 SLs (Higher Level, Standard Level)
  • TOK (Theory of Knowledge)
  • EE (Extended Essay, 4000 words)
  • CAS (Creativity, Action, Service)

The IB Diploma offers subjects from six broad disciplines. The subjects have two levels, Standard level(SL) and higher level (HL). It is mandatory for students to take up three SL and three HLs. HLs are the more difficult subjects. You must get into more depth in; they are more demanding in terms of time and energy than are SL subjects.

  • Group 1: Studies in language and literature
  • Group 2: Language acquisition
  • Group 3: Individuals and societies
  • Group 4: (Experimental) Sciences
  • Group 5: Mathematics
  • Group 6: The arts

According to the IB organization, HL courses and SL courses should have 240 classroom hours and 150 classroom hours respectively.

Since in IB there are six subjects that you must study you should be well rounded; you must spread out your knowledge over a wide range. But it is very manageable and difficulty wise it is not intimidating.

Though most subjects are offered as both HL and SL, yet there are some exceptions. A case in point is “Language Ab Initio” subjects. They are only offered at the standard level.

However, not all schools offer all subjects, so you need have a clear idea about the subjects that are offered by the school you choose. At the very beginning it is important to check with the school about the subjects offered. Some subjects will be different from IGSCE subjects. Ultimately, it is important to choose a school which can effectively implement the program to support student learning.

You can start by preparing ahead in the break which you get before the school starts, this would allow a longer time for you to get accustomed to the subject and you will be less intimidated.

If you have already chosen your subjects, take some time to really think about how your workload will feel next year. What subject do you think you will find the most challenging? What subject will you need to dedicate extra effort in class? If you are starting an entirely unfamiliar subject, you must have a lot more time to get a hand of it and how the subject works. The thing to remember is that everyone has different strengths and weaknesses in the IB curriculum. Becoming aware of what to expect will make next year’s transition a lot easier. To do this, try to predict:

  • Your subject that you find the most difficult.
  • The subject you find interesting
  • The subject you will have to dedicate more time to.

Though IB has its ups and downs, you will have numerous breakdowns, but once you start getting offers from universities, along with merit scholarships, you’ll realize how much this has helped you.

 

Some Information About IB

The assessment method of structure is no less novel than the subjects offered. The final grades for IBDP grade computer assessed which is based on a few parameters. One is the final assessment at the close of two years. In addition, the IB will take into consideration the Theory of Knowledge essay (TOK) and the Extended Essay (EE). They account for up to 20 percent of the final grades.

  • The IB point system for examinations is based on values ranging from grade 1 to grade 7. Grades 7 through 4 are qualifying grades, and 3 through 1 are non-qualifying grades. Only when a total score with a minimum of 24 points has been earned from the six examination subjects will the IB diploma be awarded.
  • Having a 38 and above predicted score is considered good enough for applying to the better schools.
  • EE/TOK/CAS are IB Core Requirements and if even one is not completed, you will risk your Diploma
  • IB exams count for 80% of the final score
  • Internal Assessments are generally of 2000 words, and they are compulsory. They contribute to 20% of the final score, and can be easy to score if done properly.
  • CAS → These are the extracurricular activities and you have to write your reflections on them.
  • TOK → Presentation and a 1.6k word essay, if you are unsuccessful then you will be unsuccessful in IB.
  • EE → 4-thousand-word essay on any subject you wish, failing this means failing IB (Even if you want you cannot be unsuccessful in this, even a short essay gets scored above a failure grade)
  • TOK/EE matrix add up to 3 points, while the other subjects have the highest grade as 7 and lowest as 1
  • Be ready for a lot of hard work and burning the midnight lamp , and a pure sense of satisfaction when you receive your diploma!

Since IB is popular internationally, hence more and more Universities are opting for it. IB enjoys excellent international recognition and is accepted even by Harvard. It teaches you skills that will prepare you for the university and hence you will find smooth sailing. Extended essay really helps you hone your writing skills and seem as an additional score in your application. It emphasizes on writing skills to the extent that technicalities like structure and format of academic writing will be like a cake walk to you. This prepares you for the university to a greater extent.

Manya provides tuition for the IBDP course as it does with IGCSE Program and study to help you charter a seamless entry to the new area. Many provides you with IBDP tuition in various IDBP subject groups.

 

Manya – The Princeton Review Advantage

Manya – The Princeton Review offers end-to-end study abroad services encompassing admissions consulting services, test preparation, English language training, career assessment, and international internship opportunities to study abroad aspirants. Founded in 2002, Manya holds an impeccable track record of enabling more than 4 lac students to accomplish their study abroad dreams through its network of 47+ centers across India.

Manya has formed long-lasting global alliances with several market leaders in the education industry in order to maximize the benefits of its large service portfolio. Their list of esteemed partners and affiliations includes – The Princeton Review (TPR), Cambridge University Press (CUP), Cogito Hub, British Council, Tuding to name a few. Manya has also forged 600+ partnerships with international universities across top study abroad destinations.

Sharing is caring:
Book your Free Counselling Session now!

FAQs

Can you do IB after IGCSE?

For entrance to the IB-DP program following IGCSE, the majority of schools have specific grade requirements. The structure of the IB-DP, which includes an extended essay known as the Theory of Knowledge, is another benefit of choosing it.

Is Cambridge harder than IB?

Academically, both programmes are equally demanding. Both focus on the development of higher order thinking, which includes creativity and problem-solving.

What IB score do you need to get into Cambridge?

For the majority of sciences courses and arts courses, Cambridge typically requires A*AA or 40–42 IB points, including core points, with 776 at Higher Level.

Is it hard to get into Cambridge?

The University of Cambridge’s acceptance rate in 2022 is 21%.

What is the benefit of IBDP?

IB promotes an inclusive environment, and as a result, students are exposed to various cultures from throughout the world, developing tolerant and global citizens.

Just One Step Away!
Our Experts require more information to assist you in a better way.

Your privacy is important to us

Admissions Consulting Packages

IGCSE & IB Side Banner