How to Find UK State Schools Offering the IB

Think the International Baccalaureate is only for expensive private schools? Think again. 

While it's true that most UK state schools stick with A Levels, there are some state schools that offer IB programmes - you just need to know where to look.

The challenge is that these schools are scattered across the country. Information about them isn't always easy to find, either, so locating and evaluating IB state schools requires a bit of detective work.

I’m going to show you how to find UK State Schools offering the IB, what to look for when comparing them, and how to make the best choice for your circumstances. Whether you're drawn to the IB's breadth or its international recognition, there might be a state school option nearby.

Key Takeaways

• IB programmes are available in some UK state schools. They're much less common than in private schools and concentrated in certain regions.

• The official IB school finder tool is your best starting point. It allows you to filter schools offering the Diploma Programme or Career-related Programme.

• Entry requirements vary between schools, so you'll need strong GCSE results - typically 6s and 7s - to secure a place.

• Location matters more than with A Levels since IB state schools are rarer. You may need to travel further or consider boarding options.

What Is the IB in UK State Schools?

Most UK state schools offer A Levels as their standard post-16 qualification. A small number have chosen to offer International Baccalaureate programmes, either instead of or alongside traditional qualifications. 

You'll find two main IB programmes in state schools. The IB Diploma Programme (DP) (opens in a new tab) is the full academic qualification. It requires six subjects, plus the extended essay and theory of knowledge. The IB Career-related Programme (CP) (opens in a new tab) combines academic study with career-focused learning. This is often suited to students wanting both university preparation and practical skills.

Some students choose the IB for its breadth. You study six subjects rather than three or four A Levels. Others are attracted by its international recognition and skills development, particularly research, critical thinking, and global awareness.

The key difference from private IB schools is funding. State IB schools don't charge fees. They often have more limited resources and smaller IB cohorts than private providers.

Entry to these programmes is typically competitive. Places are limited and demand often exceeds supply.

Where Are IB State Schools in the UK?

There are only about 55 IB state schools (opens in a new tab) (as of 2024) in the UK, though numbers fluctuate due to resource availability. These schools are clustered in certain regions. They're not evenly distributed across the country. 

• London has the highest concentration. Several boroughs offer IB programmes in their state sixth forms.

• The South East, particularly Kent, has multiple state schools with IB programmes. Hampshire also has several schools offering the qualification. 

• You'll find scattered examples elsewhere. Some schools in the North West, Yorkshire, and other regions offer IB programmes, but they're much rarer outside the South East.

The numbers are still quite limited compared to private schools: about 76 private schools (opens in a new tab) in the UK offer IB programmes.

This geographical clustering means some students face difficult choices. They'll have to think about travel, relocation, or boarding if they're committed to studying the IB in the state sector.

How to Find UK State Schools Offering the IB

Use the Official IB School Finder Tool

• Start with the International Baccalaureate Organisation's official school finder (opens in a new tab). This searchable database is the most reliable source for current IB schools.

• It lists every authorised IB school in the UK by programme type. You’ll need to check whether a school is state or independent by looking at its profile or website.

• The database shows which programmes each school offers - DP, CP, or both.

• Visit individual school websites for information about entry requirements and application processes.

• Update your searches regularly, as new schools occasionally join the IB network. Others might discontinue programmes due to resource constraints.

Check Local Authority Websites

Some local authorities maintain lists of specialised programmes available in their schools. These include IB offerings.

Kent County Council (opens in a new tab), for example, provides information about IB programmes across its schools. Hampshire (opens in a new tab) and several London boroughs also publish details about which of their schools offer alternative qualifications.

Contact education departments directly if information isn't readily available online. They can often provide current details about IB provision and upcoming changes to programmes.

Remember: local authority information might not be updated as frequently as school websites. Always verify details directly with schools.

Look at School Websites Directly

Once you have a shortlist from the official finder and local authority sources, visit each school's website for detailed information.

Look at sixth form prospectuses. These usually contain details about IB programmes, entry requirements, and subject choices available.

Check for recent news about IB results, student achievements, and programme developments. This gives you insight into how established and successful the programme is.

Contact schools directly if information isn't clear online. Admissions teams can provide specific details about their IB programmes and application processes.

What to Consider When Choosing an IB State School

Entry Requirements

• GCSE grade requirements vary significantly between schools, so research carefully before making applications.

• Most IB state schools expect grades 6-7 in subjects you want to take at Higher Level, with grade 5 typically required for Standard Level subjects.

• Some schools have additional requirements. These include grades in English and mathematics, or total points across your GCSEs.

• Competition for places can be intense, especially in areas where one school serves a wide catchment area for IB students.

Results and Reputation

• Research the school's IB results over recent years. Look for average point scores and the percentage of students achieving the full diploma.

• Check Ofsted reports for insights into teaching quality and sixth form provision. However, remember that these focus on the whole school rather than specifically on IB programmes.

• Try to speak with current IB students or recent graduates. They can provide firsthand insights into teaching quality, workload, and university preparation.

• Consider how long the school has been offering IB programmes. More established programmes often have experienced teachers and better resources.

Location and Transport

• IB state schools are rare enough that you might need to travel significantly further than for A Level provision.

• Research transport links carefully. Some students find journey times of 90 minutes each way worthwhile for IB programmes. This significantly impacts your daily routine.

• A few IB state schools offer boarding facilities, which might be worth considering if daily travel isn't practical.

• Think about backup plans if transport fails - are there places to study nearby, or reliable alternative routes?

Subject Choices

• Not all IB schools offer the same range of Higher Level and Standard Level subjects, so check availability carefully.

• Some schools might not offer certain language options, arts subjects, or specialised sciences.

• Consider how subject availability aligns with your university ambitions. If you need specific subject combinations for your target courses, ensure they're available.

• Ask about class sizes for different subjects. Very small classes might indicate limited resources or potential for programme changes.

Alternatives If You Can't Find an IB State School Nearby

Consider private schools with generous bursary or scholarship programmes. Some offer means-tested financial support. Search in the Independent Schools Council Registry (opens in a new tab). 

Remember that A Levels are equally valid for university applications. While IB has its advantages and disadvantages, both qualifications lead successfully to higher education. Find out more about the differences between IB and A Level at Save My Exams. 

Look into international schools in the UK. Some accept local students. They might even offer more flexible payment terms than traditional private schools.

Investigate online or distance learning IB programmes. These take significant self-motivation, though. They may also lack the collaborative elements that make IB education distinctive.

Some families consider relocating to areas with better IB state school provision if the qualification is a high priority.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many state schools in the UK offer the IB?

Fewer than 60 UK state schools currently offer IB programmes, compared to over 70 private schools. The exact number changes as schools join or leave the IB network. State provision remains quite limited across the country.

Do all IB state schools offer the Diploma Programme?

No, some state schools offer only the Career-related Programme (CP). This combines academic study with vocational elements. Others offer both DP and CP. Check which programme each school provides. They serve different student goals and university pathways.

Can I transfer to a state IB school for sixth form only?

Yes, most IB state schools accept external students for their sixth forms. This is when IB programmes begin. However, competition for places can be intense. You'll need strong GCSE results to meet entry requirements. Apply early and have backup options ready.

Your Path to IB Education

Finding a UK state school offering the IB requires research and persistence, but it's definitely possible. The key is starting your search early. Use multiple sources to build a comprehensive picture of your options.

Remember that the "best" IB school for you depends on your individual circumstances. Your academic ability, travel options, subject interests, and career goals all matter.

Don't be discouraged if options seem limited in your area. Students at IB state schools often like the smaller cohorts and specialised programmes.

Whether you end up at an IB state school or choose A Levels, what matters most is finding a sixth form environment where you can thrive.

Start your research now. Keep an open mind about your options, and remember that there are multiple paths to achieving your educational goals!

References 

• WhichSchoolAdvisor ‘Which UK State Schools offer the IB?’ (2004) (opens in a new tab)

• IB School Finder Tool (opens in a new tab)

• IB Diploma Programme (DP) (opens in a new tab) 

• IB Career-related Programme (CP) (opens in a new tab)

• Independent Schools Council Registry (opens in a new tab)