What Is the IB Diploma Programme? A Parent's Guide to IBDP in Hanoi

For parents researching an IB school in Hanoi or exploring options at an international school in Hanoi, choosing the right curriculum is one of the most important decisions they will make. One programme that often stands out is the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP). But what exactly is the IBDP, what do students study, and how does the programme prepare them for university and life beyond school? 

What Is the IB Diploma Programme? 

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme is an internationally recognised programme for students aged 16–19. It was established in 1968 by the International Baccalaureate Organisation (IBO) in Geneva, Switzerland. Since then, the IB has grown into a truly global education system. According to IBO, more than 1.95 million students worldwide are enrolled across its programmes, with more than 6,200 schools in over 160 countries offering IB programmes as of August 2026.  

Furthermore, the IB Diploma is accepted by more than 4,500 universities in over 110 countries and territories worldwide. For students aiming to pursue higher education at leading universities around the world, the IB Diploma is widely recognised and can help open doors to a broad range of international university pathways. 

Universities recognise the IBDP not simply because it is academically demanding, but because it develops skills that are useful for higher education. The programme places emphasis on research, critical thinking, independent learning, academic writing and applying knowledge across different contexts. IB research also indicates that DP students tend to progress to higher education at higher rates, enrol in selective institutions and perform well in post-secondary study. 

What do students study in the IBDP? 

One of the defining features of the IB Diploma Programme is its balance between breadth and depth. Students can choose six subjects across six subject groups, studying three at Standard Level (SL) and three in greater depth at Higher Level (HL): 

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

This structure means students can develop specialist knowledge in subjects that align with their interests and future university plans while maintaining a broad academic education. 

For example, a student interested in medicine might combine Biology and Chemistry with Mathematics, while a future architect, artist or business student may choose a different combination. This flexibility is one reason why learning the IBDP can support a wide range of university pathways. 

What are the three core components of the IBDP? 

Alongside their six academic subjects, every IBDP student completes the three elements of the IBDP core, including Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Extended Essay (EE) and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS). These components are designed to broaden students' learning experiences and encourage them to put their knowledge and skills into practice. 

Theory of Knowledge (TOK) 

Theory of Knowledge encourages students to think about how knowledge is created, evaluated and justified. Rather than simply asking students to learn information, TOK encourages them to ask questions such as: How do we know this? What makes evidence convincing? Can different perspectives lead to different conclusions? 

These habits of questioning and reflection can help students become more thoughtful and critical learners. Students demonstrate their understanding in TOK through an exhibition and a 1,600-word essay. 

Extended Essay (EE) 

The Extended Essay is an independent research project in which students investigate a topic of personal interest through structured academic research. 

Students develop a research question, evaluate sources, construct an argument and produce a 4,000-word essay. The experience helps develop skills that are valuable at university, where independent research and academic writing become an important part of academic life. 

Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) 

Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) encourages students to learn beyond the classroom through creative experiences, physical activity and meaningful service. 

CAS is not just about completing a list of activities. Students reflect on their experiences, set goals and consider how their actions can contribute to their communities. 

Why do parents choose the IB Diploma Programme at BIS Hanoi? 

Choosing an international school in Hanoi that offers the IBDP means looking beyond the curriculum itself. The track record of academic results, the breadth of subjects offered, and the quality of teaching and university guidance are some of the key factors to look for. 

As a leading IB school in Hanoi, BIS offers the IB Diploma Programme in Years 12 and 13 as the culmination of a carefully designed international curriculum. Students are supported in developing both academic knowledge and the skills needed to become independent learners, while the career and university guidance counsellors help them consider their future pathways and make informed choices about subjects and university destinations. 

“The gold standard of the IB Diploma enables students to access and thrive at the very best universities around the world and beyond, thanks to an emphasis not just on subject knowledge but also critical thinking, communication and collaborative skills – the keys to success in an ever-changing world and an increasingly AI driven marketplace,” said Lee Falconer, Head of Secondary. 

BIS Hanoi has been authorised to deliver the IBDP since 2018 and has established a strong record of academic achievement, consistently outperforming the world averages for nine consecutive years. This year, the Class of 2026 achieved an average IB Diploma score of 35.15, compared with a global average of 30.88. Around one in seven students achieved 40 points or more, while two students achieved the maximum score of 45 points. The cohort received offers from world-leading universities including Yale University, the University of Cambridge, UCL, the University of Melbourne, the University of Hong Kong, KAIST, Berklee College of Music and the University of the Arts London.  

The IB Diploma Programme is a demanding but rewarding educational pathway that prepares students for university and beyond. For families exploring IBDP in Hanoi or looking for a leading IB school in Hanoi, a school visit offers the best opportunity to see the programme in action. Book a visit to BIS Hanoi and connect with our academic team to learn more.