IB Diploma Programme (Grades 11, 12)

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) prepares students for success in higher education and life in a global society.

In This Section

Essential Diploma Programme Resources

IB DP at Loveland High School

Comprehensive guide to the Diploma Programme course of study, testing fees, and college credit information.

View DP Guide

Colorado Colleges and Universities

Complete list of IB transfer credit policies for Colorado institutions of higher education

View CO Credits

DP University Index

IB policies for over 2,000 universities worldwide (including half of all US institutions)

View University Index

Diploma Programme Structure

The IB Diploma Programme is a rigorous two-year curriculum for students in grades 11 and 12. Students take courses from six subject groups:

Studies in Language and Literature
Language Acquisition
Individuals and Societies
Sciences
Mathematics
The Arts

Students take three or four courses at Higher Level (HL) and the remaining at Standard Level (SL), completing a minimum of six subjects total.

Diploma Programme Core Requirements

In addition to the six subject courses, all DP students complete three core components:

Theory of Knowledge (TOK): An interdisciplinary course examining the nature of knowledge and how we know what we claim to know
Extended Essay (EE): An independent, self-directed research project culminating in a 4,000-word essay
Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS): Students engage in artistic pursuits, physical activities, and community service projects

These core elements distinguish the DP and contribute to its education of the whole person.

Assessment and Exams

IB Examinations:

Final examinations are administered in May of the senior year
Exams are graded externally by IB examiners worldwide
Scores range from 1-7 for each subject (7 being highest)
Extended Essay and TOK combined can contribute up to 3 additional points
Full Diploma requires a minimum of 24 points (maximum 45 points)

Testing Fees: For current fee information and payment details, please refer to the LHS DP Guide document.

College Credit and Recognition

University Recognition:

The IB Diploma is recognized by universities worldwide
Many universities award college credit for HL exam scores of 5, 6, or 7
Some universities award credit for SL courses as well
Credit policies vary by institution - check individual university requirements
IB students often receive advanced standing and/or course credit

Important: Use the resources above to research specific credit policies at universities you're interested in attending. Credit awarded can save thousands of dollars in tuition!

Benefits of the Diploma Programme

Why choose the IB Diploma Programme?

Develops critical thinking and research skills essential for university success
Provides a globally recognized qualification
Fosters international-mindedness and cultural awareness
Builds time management and self-directed learning abilities
Demonstrates academic rigor on college applications
Opportunity to earn college credit through exam scores
Prepares students for the demands of higher education
Develops the whole person through the core requirements

Questions About the Diploma Programme?

Contact our IB DP Coordinator, Darryl Baca, for more information about courses, requirements, and how to join the Diploma Programme.

Contact DP Coordinator

In This Section

IB Diploma Programme (Grades 11, 12)

In This Section

Essential Diploma Programme Resources

IB DP at Loveland High School

Colorado Colleges and Universities

DP University Index

Diploma Programme Structure

Diploma Programme Core Requirements

Assessment and Exams

College Credit and Recognition

Benefits of the Diploma Programme

Questions About the Diploma Programme?

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Links and Resources