What is the International Baccalaureate Programme (IB Program)?

The International Baccalaureate Programme (IB Program) curriculum is becoming increasingly popular in Vietnam, attracting significant interest from both parents and students. So, what exactly is the IB curriculum HCMC? What qualifications do students receive upon completion? And where is the best place to study for an IB diploma HCMC? This article provides essential information for parents and students considering the IB education Ho Chi Minh City system.

Overview of IB Curriculum HCMC

What is the International Baccalaureate (IB)?

The International Baccalaureate (IB) is a prestigious and globally recognized education program. It is delivered in English and designed for students aged 3 to 19, encompassing four levels: IB Primary Years Programme (IBPYP), IB Middle Years Programme (IBMYP), High School, and Career-related education.

The IB curriculum HCMC focuses on developing critical and creative thinking, independent research, and teamwork. Additionally, it emphasizes ethical education, character building, and holistic development, nurturing both intellectual and personal growth in students.

IB Diploma and Certifications

Upon completing the IB curriculum at various levels, students receive the following certifications:

• Primary Years Programme Certificate (PYP)
• Middle Years Programme Certificate (MYP)
• Diploma Programme (DP): International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB Diploma)
• Career-related Programme (CP): IB Career-related Programme Certificate
• Notably, the IB Diploma is recognized by over 2,000 universities in more than 100 countries worldwide. Prestigious institutions such as Harvard, Oxford, Cambridge, and NUS prioritize IB graduates in their admission process.

Why Should You Choose the IB Diploma Programme?

Many parents choose the IB curriculum to provide their children with a well-rounded education and excellent international study opportunities. Here are some key reasons why the IB program is gaining popularity:

• Comprehensive Development: The IB program helps students develop knowledge, skills, and character through community service projects and various extracurricular activities. This fosters communication skills, critical thinking, courage, and balance.
• Multilingual & Cross-Cultural Awareness: IB encourages bilingual education and exposes students to global learning perspectives while maintaining their cultural identity.
• Flexibility & Personal Growth: The IB program allows students to explore their interests and passions. Teachers provide continuous support, ensuring students reach their full potential.
• University & Career Opportunities: IB graduates have a competitive edge in securing scholarships from top universities worldwide and enjoy promising career prospects.

By enrolling in the IB Diploma Programme, students gain a globally recognized qualification, equipping them with essential skills for future academic and career success.

Where is the best IB school in HCMC?

For parents and students seeking a reputable institution to pursue an IB diploma HCMC, Renaissance International School is a highly recommended option. It is one of the few expat community school institutions officially recognized by the Vietnamese Ministry of Education and Training (MOET) and the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) to offer advanced academic programs in Vietnam.
With a team of highly qualified teachers, experienced international faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and an advanced educational philosophy, Renaissance International School provides a bilingual/multilingual learning environment and student-centered learning experience for students from Early Years to High School.
Parents and students interested in the IB education Ho Chi Minh City program can contact the school directly for detailed consultations on university preparation IB courses and admission information.

IB Programs by Age Group

IB Primary Years Programme (IBPYP)

The IBPYP focuses on the holistic development of young children through six transdisciplinary themes related to themselves, their families, communities, and the world around them. Students are encouraged to explore, inquire, and express their abilities through various projects and learning topics. The IBPYP lays the foundation for critical thinking IB, experiential learning IB, and lifelong independent learning.

IB Middle Years Programme (IBMYP)

The IBMYP builds upon the skills and knowledge acquired in the IBPYP. Students engage in eight subject groups and participate in community projects and personal projects to apply their learning to real-world issues.

International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP)

Students in the IBDP choose six major subjects and complete three core requirements:

• Extended Essay (EE): An independent research IB paper
• Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS): Participation in extracurricular activities such as creative endeavors, physical activities, and community service
• Theory of Knowledge (TOK): A course that explores the nature of knowledge and critical thinking IB

Career-related Programme (IB CP)

The IB CP combines academic IB DP courses with career-related studies and practical work skills. Students in the CP track have the opportunity to explore their career interests while simultaneously developing comprehensive skill development and professional competencies.

Entry Requirements for the IB Programme

PYP and MYP Admission

For the PYP and MYP, students are not required to meet specific English proficiency requirements. The school assesses students’ levels to place them in appropriate classes and provide necessary support.

DP and CP Admission

For the DP and CP, students must demonstrate English proficiency and academic capability through middle school performance or international language proficiency tests such as IELTS or TOEFL. Typical requirements include:

English proficiency at B2 – C1 level, equivalent to IELTS 6.5 – 7.0

IGCSE scores, including Math and English, must be C or above or an equivalent qualification

​​What subjects are included in the IB Diploma Programme?

IB PYP Programme

The program revolves around 6 themes throughout the course including:

• Who we are?
• Where are we in place and time?
• How do we express ourselves?
• How the world works?
• How do we organize ourselves?
• Sharing the planet

Core subjects include: Mathematics, Science, Language, Social Studies, Arts, Physical Education, and Technology.

IB MYP Programme

Develop knowledge and skills through 8 subject groups:

• Language and Literature
• Language Acquisition
• Individuals and Societies
• Sciences
• Mathematics
• Arts
• Physical and Health Education
• Design

IB DP Programme

Including 6 major subjects:

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

03 compulsory core courses:

• Theory of Knowledge (TOK)
• Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)
• Extended Essay (EE)

IB CP Curriculum

The IB CP program integrates at least two IB DP subjects with career-related studies such as business management, information technology, or graphic design. Students who complete the CP program gain a solid academic foundation combined with 21st century skills IB, preparing them for both higher education and the job market.

FAQs About the IB Diploma Programme

What are the Requirements to Obtain the IB Diploma?

To receive the IB Diploma, students must meet the following requirements over two years of the Diploma Programme (DP):

• Complete six subjects, including three Higher Level (HL) and three Standard Level (SL) subjects, from the following groups:
• • Language and Literature: Mother tongue or primary academic language
  • Language Acquisition: Second language
  • Individuals and Societies: Social sciences
  • Sciences: Natural sciences
  • Mathematics
  • The Arts
• Fulfill three core components:

• • Theory of Knowledge (TOK): Reflection on the nature of knowledge
  • Extended Essay (EE): A 4,000-word in-depth research study
  • Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS): Participation in creative, physical, and community service activities
• Achieve a minimum of 24 out of 45 points, with the following conditions:

• • No subject scored below 1
  • At least 12 points in HL subjects and 9 points in SL subjects

How Valuable is the IB Diploma?

The IB Diploma is internationally recognized and accepted by universities and colleges worldwide, including in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, Japan, and Vietnam. IB graduates are often given priority consideration in university admissions and have access to a wide range of prestigious scholarships.

IB Teacher Qualifications

IB teachers must meet strict professional standards, including advanced academic programs (often a master’s degree) and English proficiency in an academic setting. They must be well-versed in modern learning resources, student-centered learning, and interdisciplinary teaching methods.

IB educators are required to undergo specialized IB training and continuously update their knowledge. They must be capable of assessing students according to international standards, designing diverse learning activities, and fostering critical thinking IB.

What Are the Differences Between IB Schools and Traditional Schools?

IB schools differ from traditional schools primarily in their teaching methods and learning objectives. The IB curriculum HCMC emphasizes inquisitive learners, experiential learning IB, and research-based education, encouraging students to explore knowledge through interdisciplinary projects and real-world applications. The curriculum is designed to meet international standards, with a strong focus on multicultural environment, extracurricular activities, and global partnerships.

IB vs. Cambridge IGCSE – Which Program is Better?

Both the Cambridge IGCSE and IBDP offer valuable academic pathways, and the choice depends on a student’s university-bound students goals and learning abilities. IBDP provides a more comprehensive skill development program, fostering independent research IB, critical thinking IB, and student-centered learning.
For students aiming for university preparation IB and IB scholarships Vietnam, the IBDP is a better option. On the other hand, those who prefer to focus on specific subjects or plan to pursue A-Levels may find IGCSE more suitable.

How to Choose IB Diploma Subjects?

In the IBDP, students select six subjects, each from one of the six core subject groups. To choose the most suitable subjects, students should consider their interests and strengths by reviewing previous academic performance and preferred subjects. Additionally, they should identify their university-bound student’s goals and future career paths, as each field and country may have specific required subjects.
Consulting with experienced international faculty and academic advisors can provide deeper insights. Finally, chosen subjects should create a balanced program that leverages personal strengths while meeting university preparation IB requirements.

By investing in an IB diploma HCMC, students gain access to a global network IB of alumni and institutions, positioning them for IB scholarships in Vietnam and future academic success.