What the experts say

The IB is the most highly rated post 16 qualification available to UK students in terms of securing international university placement.

The IB is also the most highly rated UK qualification scored against a range of other qualities. 92 per cent of admissions officers believe it 'encourages independent inquiry', and 88 per cent say it helps students develop an ability to cope with pressure' and 'maintain an open mind'.

More admissions officers cite the IB as the best preparation to thrive at university than all other qualifications combined. After academic qualifications, admissions officers look for an indication of this quality - the ability to thrive at university - above other more 'traditional' CV offerings such as work experience or participation in sports.

The IB is considered to provide the best preparation to thrive at university of all the main sixth form exam choices on offer in the UK . Over a third, 35 per cent, of admissions officers believe the IB provides the best preparation to thrive at university, compared to 18 per cent who cited A levels, eight per cent who cited the Pre-U, and six per cent who cited the new Diplomas.

Source: Paths to Higher Education: Finding your way through the qualifications maze ACS Special Report 2008-11-11

Thriving at university and beyond: The changing exam landscape and the value of the International Baccalaureate

ACS Special Report 2007 (Click on the link below for the full report)

Thriving at University and beyond

IB or not IB: How university admissions personnel perceive the International Baccalaureate (IB) as a preparation for higher education and working life.

ACS Special Report 2006 (Click on the link below for the full report)

IB or not IB?

Perceptions of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme: A report of an inquiry carried out at UK universities and institutions of higher education.

(Click on the link below for the full report)

University Perceptions of the IBDP

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