What Is the IB Curriculum? A Complete Guide to the IB Programmes

If you’re exploring international schools or thinking about a new qualification, you may be asking, ‘What is the IB curriculum?’ and wondering how it works. Many students have heard of the IB and know it is used around the world, but may not be sure what the lessons, subjects, or projects are actually like.

The IB curriculum (opens in a new tab) guides students aged 3 to 19 through four connected programmes. It helps you learn through questions, real examples, and a wide range of subjects. This guide breaks down each programme so you can see what students learn and how the IB supports you at every stage.

Key Takeaways

• The IB curriculum is a worldwide education system for students aged 3 to 19.

• It includes four linked programmes: PYP, MYP, DP, and CP.

• Students study a broad range of subjects and develop global, personal, and academic skills.

• The IB stands out for its inquiry-based approach and focus on independent thinking.

Introduction to the IB Curriculum

The International Baccalaureate (opens in a new tab) is a global education system used in schools around the world. It offers four programmes for students aged 3 to 19. Each programme builds knowledge, skills, and confidence through a broad mix of subjects and an approach that encourages you to ask questions and explore ideas.

The IB curriculum helps you understand how different subjects connect and how learning links to real life. As you move through the range of programmes, you’ll meet new subjects and skills at the right time in your learning.

The Four IB Programmes Explained

The IB curriculum is split into four programmes. Each one covers a different age range and helps you build the knowledge and skills you need for the next stage.

IB Programme Comparison Table

Primary Years Programme (PYP)

The Primary Years Programme is for students aged 3 to 12. It focuses on learning through questions, exploration, and real examples. Instead of studying subjects on their own, students learn through six broad themes that link ideas across:

• Language

• Mathematics

• Science

• Social studies

• Arts

• Personal, social and physical education (PSPE)

The PYP ends with the PYP Exhibition, a project where students investigate an issue they care about.

Middle Years Programme (MYP)

The Middle Years Programme is for students aged 11 to 16. It helps students connect their learning to the world around them. Lessons encourage critical thinking, creativity, and reflection.

Students study eight subject groups:

• Language and literature

• Language acquisition

• Individuals and societies

• Sciences

• Mathematics

• Arts

• Physical and health education

• Design

They complete interdisciplinary units that link ideas from different subject groups. They also develop Approaches to Learning skills such as planning, research, and collaboration.

In the final year, students complete the Personal Project, an independent project exploring a topic of personal interest.

Diploma Programme (DP)

The Diploma Programme is for students aged 16 to 19. It is one of the most recognised international qualifications in the world.

DP students study six subjects and complete the DP core: 

• Theory of Knowledge (TOK)

• Extended Essay (EE)

• Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)

Subjects are chosen from:

• Studies in language and literature

• Language acquisition

• Individuals and societies

• Sciences

• Mathematics

• The arts

Our range of IB Options guides will help you with your choices.

Students complete coursework and external exams. DP subjects are graded on a scale of 1 to 7, with a maximum of 45 points. 

Career-related Programme (CP)

The Career-related Programme is also for students aged 16 to 19. It combines academic study with career-focused learning. Students take selected DP subjects alongside career-related studies offered by the school.

The CP core includes:

• Personal and Professional Skills (PPS)

• Service Learning

• Reflective Project

• Language Development

The CP helps students build practical skills and prepare for apprenticeships, further study, or early career pathways.

The IB Learner Profile

The IB Learner Profile describes the qualities that students develop across all four programmes. These attributes shape lessons, projects, and school culture. 

IB students aim to be:

• Inquirers, who enjoy exploring questions and ideas

• Knowledgeable, with a broad understanding of different subjects

• Thinkers, who can analyse information and solve problems

• Communicators, who share ideas clearly in more than one language

• Principled, with a strong sense of fairness and responsibility

• Open-minded, willing to consider different views and cultures

• Caring, showing empathy and respect for others

• Risk takers, ready to try new things and face challenges

• Balanced, managing their learning and wellbeing

• Reflective, able to review their progress and set goals

These attributes support success in the classroom and prepare students for future study, work, and life after the IB. 

What Makes the IB Curriculum Unique?

The IB curriculum stands out because it focuses on both subject knowledge and the wider skills students need for life beyond school. You’ll be encouraged to think deeply, make connections across subjects, and understand real issues in the world. 

Ultimately, the IB aims to help you become a lifelong learner. 

Key features include:

• International mindedness. Students explore global themes and learn to value different cultures and perspectives.

• Inquiry based learning. Lessons start with questions and real examples. 

• Broad subject study. IB students keep a wide range of subjects for longer, especially in the MYP and DP. This helps you stay open to different pathways.

• Interdisciplinary learning. Subjects link together through projects and units. 

• Personal development. Projects such as the PYP Exhibition, Personal Project, Extended Essay, and Service Learning help to build independence and confidence.

IB Curriculum vs Other Education Systems

The IB curriculum is different from many national systems because it keeps learning broad for longer and develops both academic and personal skills. 

This can make it feel quite different from routes like GCSEs and A Levels in the UK or the Advanced Placement programme in the US.

How the IB compares:

• Breadth of subjects. Many systems encourage early specialisation. IB students continue with a wide range of subjects through the MYP and DP.

• Assessment style. The IB combines coursework, internal assessments, and external exams. 

• Learning approach. Inquiry and independent research sit at the heart of the IB. 

• Global outlook. While national systems reflect one country’s curriculum, the IB is designed for international schools and students moving between countries.

• Pathways. The DP is widely recognised by universities worldwide, and the CP supports both further study and career-focused routes.

Who Is the IB Curriculum For?

The IB curriculum suits students who enjoy exploring ideas, taking part in discussions, and making links between different subjects. It’s a good choice for learners who want a broad education rather than specialising early.

It suits students who:

• prefer a mix of coursework, projects, and exams

• enjoy independent study and real world tasks

• like working in groups and individually

• want to build strong research and communication skills

• may move between countries or plan to study abroad

The DP often leads to university study, while the CP supports higher education, apprenticeships, and career-based routes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What age is the IB curriculum for?

The IB curriculum is for students aged 3 to 19. The PYP covers ages 3 to 12, the MYP covers ages 11 to 16, and the DP and CP are for ages 16 to 19.

Is the IB curriculum harder than other systems?

The IB can feel demanding because students study a broad mix of subjects and complete independent projects. The level of challenge varies between programmes and depends on the subjects you choose. 

Do all IB schools offer every programme?

No. Some schools offer only the PYP or MYP. Others offer the DP or CP at post 16. A smaller number offer all four programmes.

Can I switch to the IB from another system?

Yes. Many students join the IB from national or international systems. Schools will help you choose the right entry point and subjects.

Final Thoughts

The IB curriculum gives you a broad and balanced education with many chances to explore new interests. You build confidence through projects and real world tasks, helping you feel ready for your next steps in education or a future career.

If you’re thinking about joining an IB programme at any stage, take time to explore the subjects and projects you will study. You can also use Save My Exams for expert-written IBDP study resources and support when you need it. With the right tools and guidance, you can make the most of the IB and feel confident about the path ahead.

References:

• Education programmes - International Baccalaureate® (opens in a new tab)

• International Baccalaureate (opens in a new tab)