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Choosing the right academic programme for your child is a big decision, and one that can shape their future in many significant ways. If you're considering the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme, you’ve likely come across two main options - the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) and the IB Career-related Programme (IBCP). Both offer unique benefits and cater to different types of learners.
So, which one is the right fit for your child? Let’s look at both and answer that question.
The International Baccalaureate (IB) is a globally recognised educational framework designed to develop students both academically and personally. It encourages critical thinking, intercultural understanding, and centres around a global mindset. The IB aims to prepare students not just for university, but for life after by fostering curiosity, independence and resilience. At its core, the IB aims to create well-rounded, internationally minded individuals ready to make a positive impact on the world.
The IB offers a few different pathways for students, with the IBDP and IBCP being two popular choices at the senior school level. Let’s take a closer look at each one now.
The IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) is an academically rigorous, pre-university course designed for students aged 16 to 19. It’s widely respected by universities around the world and is known for its challenging and holistic approach to education. The programme nurtures not just intellectual curiosity, but personal and social development, too.
The IBDP focuses on six main subject groups: Language and Literature, Language Acquisition, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, and the Arts. Students can choose one subject from each group, with three of these studied at a Higher Level (HL) and three at Standard Level (SL).
Beyond subject choices, the IBDP features three core components:
The IBDP is a great fit for students who:
Are academically driven and interested in a wide range of subjects.
Enjoy intellectual challenges and critical thinking.
Are targeting competitive university admissions.
Thrive in a well-rounded programme which blends academics with creativity, physical activity, and community involvement.
If your child loves exploring a wide range of subjects, enjoys writing insightful essays, and values both academic and personal growth, the IBDP could be an excellent fit.
The IB Career-related Programme (IBCP) is designed for students who want to combine academic study with practical, career-focused learning. It’s a more flexible, hands-on programme than its counterpart which helps students develop skills specific to their future careers, while still benefiting from the IB’s core values of international-mindedness and personal development.
The IBCP blends academic subjects from the IB Diploma Programme with career-focused study and a unique set of core features.
When undertaking the IBCP, students typically:
Take two or more IBDP subjects (at either Standard Level or Higher Level).
Pursue a career-related study through a BTEC diploma (such as business, sports or hospitality).
Complete the CP Core, which includes:
Personal and Professional Skills (PPS) – Develops practical skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
Service Learning – Engages students in community projects to apply their learning in real-world situations.
Reflective Project – A research-based essay focusing on an ethical issue connected to their studies.
Language Development – Ensures students continue to develop language skills, which are vital for global careers.
The IBCP is a great fit for students who:
Are passionate about a particular career path or field.
Prefer a more practical, hands-on learning approach.
Want to gain real-world skills alongside academic study.
Are focused on entering the workforce via permanent roles or apprenticeships after school.
If your child is more career-focused and wants to build practical skills while keeping future study options open, the IBCP could be the perfect path.
At SISD, we are proud to offer both the IBDP and IBCP programmes to offer every student a path that suits their strengths, interests, and career aspirations.
Our multilingual environment and international community provide a truly global education experience, which perfectly aligns with the IB’s core values. We’re committed to nurturing each student’s academic potential whilst putting focus on essential life skills such as resilience, empathy, and leadership.
Whether your child thrives in the academic rigor of the IBDP or the career-focused flexibility of the IBCP, SISD provides outstanding support, world-class facilities, and passionate educators to guide them on their journey.
Ultimately, both the IBDP and IBCP offer incredible opportunities, but they’re designed with slightly different students in mind. If your child enjoys academic depth and challenge, the IBDP might be the way to go. If they’re more career-driven and practical, the IBCP could offer the best balance of academic and professional skills.
At SISD, you don’t have to choose between excellence and individuality. We’re here to help you and your child navigate these options and find the perfect fit for their future.
Ready to learn more? Contact us our speak with our admissions team to explore how the IB programmes can shape your child’s educational journey and beyond.
The International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum is a globally recognised curriculum, known for its academic rigor, holistic approach, and focus on preparing students for the future. The IB is a curriculum for families to consider, especially when they desire a pathway that emphasizes global-mindedness, critical thinking and personal growth.
What exactly are the benefits of the IB curriculum and why is it such a popular choice for students around the world?
