Independent research carried out by ACS, in partnership with the International Baccalaureate Schools and Colleges Association (IBSCA) and the IB, indicates that the IB Diploma Programme is the best preparation for the workplace and university.
The report was based on feedback of university admissions officers at 80 higher education institutes across the UK, as well as universities in the US.
Nearly a fifth, 18 per cent, of university admissions officers cite the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) as a better preparation to thrive at university, compared to just eight per cent who cite A levels, and three per cent Scottish Highers. Around a half, 51 per cent, rate the qualifications equally in this respect.
Developing workplace and self-management skills, an ability to cope with pressure, and an entrepreneurial or positive approach to risk taking are just some of the qualities university admission officers cite as best provided by the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP).
Dr Peter Fidczuk, UK Development and Recognition Manager, IB, said:
“As this survey reaches a ten year milestone, it is gratifying to see how the IBDP has consistently remained out in front and, in today’s global society, is clearly the best qualification to prepare young people for further study and work.”
For ACS International Schools, taking the initiative to conduct this survey is driven by our commitment to offer the best possible solutions to our students and parents. Our goal is to equip current and prospective students and parents to make better education choices and help them identify the best schools and programmes that suit their unique requirements. As our world changes and evolves our education systems also grow in tandem. Hence, in order to effectively counsel students and parents it is important for us to step forward and evaluate the exam systems we offer and benchmark them against other approaches in the UK and elsewhere in the world.
We are proud to say that once again, the 2015 survey has confirmed the efficacy of the IB approach and we invite our readers to discover the value of the IB system for themselves.
Please click to access a PDF of the University Admissions Officers report.