Taking an IB Online Course – What Students Should Know

The internationally recognized, highly respected International Baccalaureate program for students K-12 is increasingly popular with families around the globe for its excellent reputation, global mindedness, and rigorous academics prized by colleges and universities everywhere.

The success of the IB program, particularly the IB Diploma Program for high school juniors and seniors, has led many families to seek out IB courses online.

Interest has grown, especially now that online education is preferred by many students who seek a personalized schedule that combines high level academics and the freedom to pursue athletics, performing arts, or family travel.

Is it possible to take the IB Diploma Program Online?

Starting in September 2021, students may pursue the IB Diploma program online through Dwight School, an IB World School. Dwight School, the flagship school of the Dwight Schools network worldwide, has been an IB pioneer and leader for over 50 years.

In the summer of 2022, Dwight Global Online School was also selected by the International Baccalaureate to participate in a pilot to deliver the IB Diploma program online, opening access to even more students interested in the online DP. In offering this unique program, Dwight Global leverages Dwight’s expertise in the IB curriculum along with its years of online education experience.

What are the requirements of the IB Diploma Program?

The IB Diploma Program is a two-year program for 11th and 12th graders that provides a strong academic framework for educating internationally-minded problem-solvers — culturally agile and often multilingual. It requires students to take six IB courses online concurrently with the Core curriculum. To obtain the IB Diploma, students must take at least three higher level classes.

The Core comprises the Theory of Knowledge course, which explores the nature and dimension of knowledge, and the Extended Essay, where students write an academic research essay based on a research project on a topic of their own choosing. The Core also includes CAS projects, which seek to develop the student through projects promoting creativity, activity, and service.

The full complement of online IB course offerings is detailed in Dwight Global’s Curriculum Guide.

What do Students Say?

Dwight Global’s cohort of online IB program students have given the program strong reviews.  Representing a number of different countries and interests, they have enjoyed the rigor of the program, along with the opportunity for flexibility.

Students also said Dwight Global faculty were supportive, engaging, and experienced, and that their online IB courses were challenging and rewarding. The IB Diploma Program also gave them the chance to collaborate with, learn from, and befriend students from all over the world.

One student wrote, “It’s the best program. It’s perfect for preparing for college and helps you figure out what you want to study. The IB program supports you in every way, connecting your interest with that of a global significance. It makes school and life much more exciting, helps you become more aware of yourself and the environment, and demonstrates the power of your actions. You will recognize the importance of your role as a global citizen.”

Personalized Learning at Dwight Global

In addition to the International Baccalaureate, Dwight Global Online School also offers a range of challenging Honors and Advanced Placement courses.

Because Dwight Global students are able to choose across standards, they receive a truly personalized education to set them up for success. Students deciding between the Advanced Placement and IB paths have a detailed meeting with their Dean and College Counselor, who together with their families help them choose the program that best aligns with their goals, interests, and passions.

For more information about personalized learning and the IB program at Dwight Global, visit this link.