IBDP Preparation Tutoring

What is IBDP?

The IBDP is a rigorous two-year programme that culminates in a series of final exams typically taken in May. Students are required to study six subjects from six predetermined subject groups: i) Language & Literature, ii) Language Acquisition, iii) Individuals and Societies, iv) Sciences, v) Mathematics, and vi) Arts. Students may have the option of studying a second Science in lieu of an Arts subject should their desired undergraduate programme require it, e.g., Medicine. Subjects are divided into two levels: i) Standard Level (SL) and ii) Higher Level (HL). Students are required to take at least 3 (but no more than 4) HL courses. Whilst both SL and HL subjects are measured against the same grade descriptors (a score out of 7), HL counterparts can be significantly more demanding and require a much deeper understanding of the subject.

In addition to the subject groups, the IBDP requires 3 additional things of its students: i) Theory of Knowledge (TOK), ii) Extended Essay (EE), and iii) Creativity/Action/Service (CAS). TOK is a semi-philosophical study of ontological and epistemological concepts – students will be assessed against a twenty-minute oral presentation and a 1,600-word essay tackling one of six essay prompts.  The EE is a 4,000-word research paper that is designed to mimic the format of college reports. Both the EE and TOK, together, are worth a maximum of 3 points. As for CAS, CAS is an initiative designed to encourage participation in extracurricular activities – a minimum number of activities and hours is required before the diploma can be conferred.

The IBDP is designed to produce well-rounded students that are ready to tackle the difficulties of a university education. Research has indicated that students graduating with an IB Diploma are significantly more likely to be enrolled at top universities (as compared to students from other high school programs) and more likely to complete their degrees.

How can I prepare for IBDP?

Private tuition helps students develop better study skills and to perform better in exams. Our Tutors develop a more personal relationship with students, they are able to see and cultivate the potential within them. Group classes are a good alternative for students who perform better in group environments, study with friends and pay less or meet likeminded people.
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Once you understand the core concepts of IBDP, and what the exam board is looking for in an IBDP student achieving a good score will mainly depend on your perseverance. Understand the learning outcomes of each subject, put in the hard work and you'll be en route to your target. IBDP is one of the world's most respected diplomas and is recognized by top universities as a taste of higher education. Our students who completing this diploma are known to be avid outside-the-box thinkers and risk takers.

Updates on IBDP 

Under the ' dual route' IBDP exams to continue for Hong Kong students and other countries deemed safe from covid. ESF student's petition to sway the swiss education board's controversial decision has been formally declined.

IBDP curriculums are updated every 7 years, the learning criteria and materials used are the common changes we see. Next summer IBDP will release the new syllibuses for Theatre and Business & Management. Stay tuned to understand all changes made and tips once the updates are released!

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