The International Baccalaureate program provides a course of study and tools for assessing students as well as programs for training teachers. The non-profit International Baccalaureate Foundation, based in Geneva, Switzerland, has consultative status with UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.
Students in the IB program are assessed by their own teachers as well as by international educators from around the world. Nearly 30,000 students are assessed each year by the IB Organization, and usually 80 per cent of students graduate with a diploma recognized by such esteemed universities as the Sorbonne, Yale and Oxford.
Ontario schools have a rigorous curriculum. But IB schools have an internationally recognized and sanctioned curriculum. They have a primary, middle years, and high school program.
The International Baccalaureate Program (IB), a blueprint for learning designed 30 years ago for the children of globetrotting diplomats, is now used in more than 800 schools from Singapore to Sweden, including 117 here in Canada.
Developed in Switzerland by blending elements from various national school systems, the new hybrid two-year pre-university program was intended as a sort of "curriculum without borders" that would translate into any language and equip students for university in a number of different countries.
The IB program has a tough liberal-arts curriculum. It also has intellectually challenging courses in areas that have since become popular - the theory of knowledge (or how people learn), community service, and learning through inquiry rather than rote tasks.
As a result of both high standards and a global focus, the International Baccalaureate has won fans far beyond the so-called international community. More than a dozen schools in Ontario, including Toronto's The York School, have adopted the IB as a sort of enriched honours program for all students - whether or not they ever leave town.
"We started the IB program five years ago because it incorporates so many good teaching practices that produce amazing outcomes," says principal Barbara Goodwin- Zeibots of The York School, a co-educational, non-denominational day school for grades 1 through 12 on Yonge Street, just south of St. Clair Avenue.
"We were drawn to the academic rigour of the International Baccalaureate, as well as the focus on responsible citizenship and the way it encourages critical, compassionate thinkers."
When an Ontario high school - whether public or private - adopts the pre-university IB diploma program, students must take these extra requirements above and beyond the province's curriculum in their last two years of high school.
A sort of enriched overlay, the IB curriculum makes sure each student studies at least one other language, at least one experimental science, a math course, an arts subject and a course in social science.
As well, IB students take a mandatory course on learning itself, which challenges them to think about how people learn, the nature of knowledge and how to mount a rational argument.
Beyond the classroom, the IB program required students to do community service long before Ontario launched its new community service requirement last year, in which provincial high school students must perform 40 hours of volunteer work over four years of high school. In contrast, in just two years, IB students must perform 50 hours of service to the school community, a further 50 hours of community service outside the school, plus 50 hours of leadership training.
"It's not academic elitism," says Goodwin-Zeibots, who is phasing in the IB program at York in the lower grades as well. "We already take the inquiry approach to learning in the primary grades, so the IB program would add another dimension. It excites us tremendously because it takes learning to different levels."
In Ontario, the International Baccalaureate has found a home in both public high schools such as Toronto's Vaughn Road Academy, Weston Collegiate and Victoria Park Secondary School, as well as such independent schools as Upper Canada College, The Toronto French School, and The York School.
In an age of growing demands for standardization and rich course content, the International Baccalaureate appears to be an idea whose time has come.
Go right to our very informative portal and listings of schools with the international Baccalaureate program!
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"Branksome Hall is Toronto’s only leading International Baccalaureate (IB) World School for girls in JK-Grade 12, developing the leaders of tomorrow through the nurturing of curiosity and critical thinking at every age.
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"The York School is a JK-Grade 12 gender inclusive IB World School in midtown Toronto. Our mission is to nurture curious learners to become globally minded leaders with integrity and purpose.
—From the school
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"SJK offers an enriched environment of exploration and experiential learning. Through its IB curriculum, SJK provides exciting experiences and guides students to discover their talents and passions. Go beyond at SJK.
—From the school
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"Confident Learners. Inspiring Leaders. Creating a thriving world.
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"Located in the heart of Toronto, UCC provides transformational learning experiences in a supportive, caring environment. Our highly sought-after graduates are awarded OSSD and International Baccalaureate diplomas.
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"Sunnybrook School offers the IB Primary Years Program for all students in JK - Grade 6. We have a fully integrated co-ed and 1:1 iPad program for all the grades. Our inquiry approach leads to global citizens.
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"Balanced Academics, Arts, Athletics & Student Wellness. We value best practices & evidence-based approaches. University preparatory & 21st Century Tech-Rich & Future Proof school. Enriched and rigorous curriculum.
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"La Citadelle's Excellence in Bilingual Education and academically advanced curriculum develop successful global citizens through IB & AP programs and a holistic approach where students achieve their highest potential.
—From the school
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Victoria, British Columbia "GNS is an independent JK-12 International Baccalaureate boarding and day school in Victoria, BC, that empowers and supports each of our students to do their best through truth and courage in learning and in life." —From the school
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Ottawa, Ontario Buena Vista Road/Springfield Road "Elmwood School is Ottawa's pre-eminent school for girls from PreK to Gr. 12. Our high academic standards, small class sizes and safe, supportive environment ensure that each girl is inspired to reach her full potential." —From the school
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Burlington, Ontario Walkers Line/Fairveiw Street "Ashwood Glen offers a Montessori program for children aged 18months—6 yrs. The Grades 1—8 Learning Program applies the International Baccalaureate framework to expand on the learning outcomes of the Ontario curriculum." —From the school
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Toronto, Ontario Bayview/Lawrence "TFS - Canada's International School offers an exceptional bilingual education from age 2 to Grade 12. Average class size is 12 to 22 students. Entrance Scholarship to Grade 7 is available." —From the school
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Delta, British Columbia 56th/19 Ave "Southpointe Academy is the only secular International Baccalaureate (IB) Continuum World School south of the Fraser River authorized to deliver the entire range of IB programs from K-12." —From the school
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Richmond Hill, Ontario Bayview/Hwy 407 "Lauremont School is a leading, accredited independent school that offers a unique design of Montessori and International Baccalaureate programmes. Our students thrive in academics while building a foundation for life." —From the school
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Winnipeg, Manitoba Langside St./Westminster Ave. "Parents trust us to personalize the educational experience of each girl, to care for each girl, to challenge her to grow, to build a supportive community around her, and, most importantly, to prepare her for the future." —From the school
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Mississauga, Ontario Erin Mills Parkway/Argentia Rd "There’s a different energy at SJA. As a leading IB World School and university prep school, SJA creates an atmosphere of acceptance that allows us to challenge students to take ownership of their own success." —From the school
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Mississauga, Ontario "Lynn-Rose's philosophy is to create an environment that is challenging and rewarding; focusing on social, intellectual and emotional aspects of the students development through IB and AP programme offerings." —From the school
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Victoria, British Columbia "Brookes Westshore is an IB World School on Vancouver Island, BC, offering small class sizes, engaging teachers and a caring community to boarding and day students from grades 4 to 12." —From the school
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North Vancouver, British Columbia Harbourside Drive/ "Bodwell High School provides a competitive, well-rounded education with strong student support. The school's motto, "Strength in Diversity," pays homage to the 40+ countries students come from to live and learn together." —From the school
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Ottawa, Ontario Highway 417/Greenbank "Acadecap International School (Académie de la Capitale), an IB World School, offers bilingual and/or English programmes from JK to Grade 12. Students thrive in a growth mindset environment and a culture of excellence." —From the school
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Richmond Hill, Ontario "Richland Academy is a progressive, innovative Reggio-inspired and International Baccalaureate (IB) PYP Authorized and MYP Candidate School for children from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 8." —From the school
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Calgary, Alberta "Calgary French & International School's immersive language learning environment and enriched curriculum inspires a deep curiosity, respect and exploration of the world for children aged 19 months to 18 years." —From the school
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Markham, Ontario Kennedy Road/Steeles Avenue "Located in Markham, Ontario, Town Centre Private Schools is an IB Continuum World School offering a Montessori Pre-School program, IB Elementary School, High School and optional IB Diploma Programme." —From the school
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Riverview, New Brunswick "Focusing on balancing academic and intellectual growth with physical and mental well-being, we engage students in a culture of collaboration and wellness through our world-class academic program." —From the school
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Vancouver, British Columbia "Stratford Hall takes learning beyond IB with its IDEA Lab, OEE and partner schools, where students strive to develop harmony between the urban and natural world through activities like camping, music, and orienteering." —From the school
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Amaranth, Ontario "The Maples is an established private IB World School in Orangeville, Ontario providing exemplary education for students (Pre-School to Grade 8). French instruction in PS and Kindergarten with an academic focus." —From the school
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Mississauga, Ontario Cawthra/Lakeshore "TFS - Canada's International School (West Campus) offers the Ontario, France and IB programs from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 7 in Mississauga. We are bilingual, coed, non-denominational and and IB World School." —From the school
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Summerland, British Columbia "Looking for an education that's out of the ordinary? Unisus School is a Pre - K to Grade 12 day and boarding school in Canada's Okanagan, offering the International Baccalaureate program + the B.C. Diploma (Dogwood)." —From the school
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Toronto, Ontario "GIST is the only full-time German school in Toronto offering high-quality education that empowers students to excel as global citizens. Our Charakter framework strengthens and promotes the best in every student." —From the school
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North York, Ontario "At North Bay, every student is seen, valued, and nurtured as an individual, instilling comfort and confidence in a supportive learning environment. We empower each student to thrive and become their best selves." —From the school
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London, Ontario Richmond Street/King Street "A Canadian Private Secondary Boarding school, located in the heart of London, Ontario. LIA is authorized to grant the Ontario Secondary School and International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme." —From the school
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Regina, Saskatchewan "Luther College prepares students to be compassionate, creative, and critical thinkers who go on to create a more grace-filled, just, and joyful world. Luther College is the only IB World School in southern Saskatchewan." —From the school
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St. Catharines, Ontario Edinburgh Dr/Scott Street "We provide students with opportunities to explore real-world concepts and issues, broadening their sense of responsibility, develop their critical thinking skills, and empower them to take action in a global community." —From the school
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Ottawa, Ontario Mariposa Avenue/Springfield "This traditional private school in Ottawa, Ontario offers Grades 4 to 12 with 100 boarding and 600 day school students. Tuition is from $36,250 to $80,670." —From the school
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St. Catharines, Ontario Ridley Road/Henrietta Street "Ridley College is an acclaimed co-educational IB boarding and day school that prepares meaningful and flourishing lives by teaching the habits of mind, body and spirit, and the values needed to lead in a global society." —From the school
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Markham, Ontario Woodbine Av./Hwy 7 "Since 2002, J. Addison has provided a stimulating education for students. Located at the corner of Woodbine and Valleywood Drive in Markham, ON, Canada, you will find our state-of-the-art 58,000 sq. ft. facility." —From the school
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Sherbrooke, Quebec "Bishop's College School is an English boarding and day school for students in grades 7 through 12. Small in size and culturally diverse, BCS is an IB World School offering the IB Diploma Programme and Canadian curricula." —From the school
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Vancouver, British Columbia West Georgia Street/Robson Street "We aim to create the opportunity for students to achieve their learning goals. In collaborative learning spaces, students explore content, ideas and perspectives to better understand the world around them." —From the school
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Rothesay, New Brunswick Rothesay Rd/College Hill Rd "Our unique, daily Advisor Program ensures every student is surrounded by a strong network of highly qualified, dedicated faculty and staff whose mission is to provide academic, emotional, and social guidance and support." —From the school
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Rome, Italy Ponte Sublicio/Lungotevere Aventino "An IB World School located in the heart of Rome. A connected community driven by our 5 core values of Scholarship, Integrity, Creativity, Independence, and Care; culturally inspiring students since 1964." —From the school
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Markham, Ontario "Markham, Ontario; IB School; OSSD; OSSD online credit course; NOIC ACADEMY’s annual university enrolment rate is 100% and more than 85% of graduates are admitted by University of Toronto." —From the school
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West Vancouver- Bowen Island, British Columbia "Our four year program is developed to equip and inspire students to cultivate their humanity. We are distinctly different: a small (IB) middle school that fosters intellectual engagement, citizenship and leadership." —From the school
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Oakville, Ontario QEW Highway/403 Highway "Walden International School is the only private school in Halton region that is authorized to deliver the IB PYP and MYP programmes. Walden is committed to Making Good People. And, from goodness arises greatness." —From the school
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Oakville, Ontario Trafalgar Road/Cornwall Road "MacLachlan College’s Lower School offers world-class education tailored for JK to Grade 6. Our co-ed IB PYP fosters vibrant, international-minded learning in small classes, laying the foundation for academic success." —From the school
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West Vancouver, British Columbia Upper Levels Highway/Cypress Bowl exit "By inspiring excellence – the continuous pursuit of personal best - in education and life, Mulgrave strives to equip lifelong learners to thrive in a diverse and interdependent world." —From the school
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North Vancouver, British Columbia "Brockton is a gender-inclusive IB World School where every student matters, every family matters, community matters, and learning for life matters." —From the school
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Windsor, Nova Scotia College Rd/King St "Benefitting from its safe and beautiful Nova Scotia location, King's-Edgehill facilitates the opportunity for every student to Be More – in the classroom, on the sports fields, on stage, in the community and beyond." —From the school
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Foothills, Alberta Range Road 12/306 Ave W "Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School is an independent, private coeducational, continuum IB (primary, middle, and diploma programme) day school for Kindergarten - Grade 12, located just outside of Calgary, AB." —From the school
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Maple Ridge, British Columbia 240th Street/Dewdney Trunk Road "Our practices in teaching and learning are exemplified by our outstanding academic results and are achieved through the active engagement of the head, heart, and hands." —From the school
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Montreal, Quebec Av de Monkland/Boul Cavendish "Lower Canada College is a gender-inclusive, K-12 university preparatory school, committed to excellence in teaching and learning. It is the only English high school in Quebec offering both the IB MYP and DP." —From the school
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The International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme
What the IB Programme is and what it offers (December 14, 2022)
The IB Career-Related Programme
Private schools offering the International Baccalaureate for students 16 to 19 (August 26, 2019)
Getting a headstart
Advanced placement & International Baccalaureate programs (August 21, 2019)
Exploring the global village
The Round Square association gets students out of the classroom (May 23, 2019)
