Ready for the Future: How the IB Diploma at PBIS Sets Students Up for Success

Choosing the Right Secondary School Pathway

Choosing a secondary school pathway is one of the first big steps in shaping your child’s future. In today’s rapidly changing world, students need more than the ability to memorise facts - they need curiosity, adaptability, and the confidence to apply their learning in new contexts in and outside of classroom. For many families in Prague, the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma offers a powerful alternative to the traditional “Maturita”, providing a globally recognised, future‑focused qualification that prepares students well for university or any path they choose to pursue beyond school.

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What Is the IB Diploma?

The International Baccalaureate (IB) isn’t just a foreign alternative to “Maturita”. It’s a comprehensive academic system that leads students toward independence, global awareness, and deep, conceptual understanding – not just memorisation of knowledge. The IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) is a course taught worldwide and recognised by established universities.

It emphasises:

Broad academic study
Critical thinking and inquiry
Independence and responsibility
Intercultural understanding
Strong preparation for university

In practice, this means students learn to understand, question, apply, and connect ideas, not just memorise them – a major reason why the IB is an increasingly popular alternative across the Czech Republic. At PBIS, we see these skills reflected in the outstanding outcomes our students achieve. In 2025, our students achieved a 99% pass rate with an average score of 34 points (11% above the global average).

How the Programme Works

At PBIS, the IB Diploma is the standard pathway for all students in Years 12–13 (age 16 - 19). Students choose six subjects, typically three at Higher Level and three at Standard Level, across:

Language & Literature
Language Acquisition
Individuals & Societies
Sciences
Mathematics
The Arts (or an additional subject)

This structure allows students to shape a programme that fits their interests and future university plans. Download the full PBIS IB Diploma booklet (PDF): Click here to download

What Forms the Heart of the IB Diploma?

What truly sets the IB apart is the Core. The three IB Core Components are CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service), TOK (Theory of Knowledge), and EE (Extended Essay). Students demonstrate learning through essays, investigations, internal assessments, oral presentations, and externally assessed exams that emphasise real‑world application. They learn to own their projects, argue, present, analyse, and synthesise – precisely the skills expected in university seminars and the workplace. Students become confident, self‑managed learners – a key reason the IB is respected globally.

Recognition and Value in Czechia and Worldwide

Since 1 March 2025, the IB Diploma has been officially recognised as a full equivalent to the Czech "maturita" exam for university admissions. No nostrification is required. This gives students access to Czech universities such as Charles University, CTU, and VŠE, while keeping international pathways open. University success, whether local or worldwide, depends on self‑management, inquiry, and adaptability – values the IB fosters. At PBIS, recent graduates have secured offers across the UK, the Netherlands, Canada, South Korea, and the Czech Republic – including institutions among the global top 200 such as Carnegie Mellon, NYU, King’s College London, and TU Delft – with students also heading to CTU, Charles University, and VŠE in Prague.

Why Families Choose the IB

Families choose the IB Diploma at PBIS because it combines excellent results with expert teaching and strong individual care. The 99% pass rate and above-the-average 34 points score is supported by highly trained specialist teachers who understand how to guide learners through challenging concepts. Small class sizes allow for personalised feedback and mentoring, while our international environment helps students develop a global mindset. As a result, graduates feel confident and well‑prepared for university, both in Czechia and worldwide.

Is the IB Right for My Child?

While the programme is delivered entirely in English, Czech language remains optional for students applying to local universities. The main benefit for students is the competencies and skills they acquire. They become:

curious and open‑minded
willing to organise their work
interested in understanding the “why”
comfortable thinking critically
ready to take a step toward independence.

With the right support, a wide range of learners thrive in the IB programme. We are happy to consult and discuss your individual case with you on the phone or during a private tour.

Final Thoughts

For families exploring international schools in Prague, the IB Diploma offers a globally recognised, future‑focused pathway. Whether your child plans to study in the Czech Republic or abroad, the IB provides both strong academic foundations and essential life skills.

Contact for consultations: +420 226 096 210, admissions@pbis.cz

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