Dual Qualification at the German School London

We believe that a rigorous preparation for university studies, with a clear focus on time management, research skills and thorough academic competences permits each student to accept and meet the challenges of a university education.

In addition to the German International Abitur, the International Baccalaureate Diploma programme offers our students an additional entrance qualification for university studies and an opportunity to become competent, committed, and responsible individuals and open-minded learners.

In general, students completing year 10 are eligible to apply to the IB diploma or course candidate programme; nevertheless, a student’s academic standing and promise will be considered and determine final enrolment.

The IB Diploma Programme offers 6 subject from 6 different academic areas:

• Three subjects at higher level (HL); three at standard level (SL).
• A candidate may enrol in a second Language A instead of a Language B.
• Mathematics is compulsory.
• A student can choose to study a group 6 subject or an additional subject from groups 1 – 5

The following subjects are currently available: 
 

Course Candidates

Category “course” applies to candidates enrolled in individual courses and not entering the full IB diploma programme.  Furthermore, students who choose not to complete IB diploma requirements can be registered as Course Candidates and receive credit for already completed work in single courses.

In general, course candidates can be registered and assessed for core elements such as Extended Essay (EE) and/or Theory of Knowledge (TOK).  Course candidates can also pursue Creativity, Action, Service (CAS) requirements of the diploma programme and have this requirement shown on their course results if the CAS programme is completed.

Course candidates must complete their courses; deregistration will be noted on the student’s report card.

At DSL, course candidates may choose

• two or more courses
• one, two or all three of the core elements

Please consider the following standards when enrolling in the IB programme:

• IB learner profile aims to develop learners who are inquirers, knowledgeable, thinkers, communicators, principled, open-minded, caring, risk-takers, balanced and reflective
• Academic potential and promise based on academic history
• Commitment (completion of DIA and IB relevant assignments)
• Stamina (e.g. Extended Essay, independent study, IB exams in May, completion of CAS requirements)

Students are obliged to complete three higher level and three standard level courses in order to pass the requirements of the IB diploma programme in the fields of language studies, mathematics, social sciences, natural sciences and the arts. As of SY 2023/24, students can opt to take four higher and two standard level courses. 

Further requirements set by the IB diploma programme are:

• Theory of knowledge: a critical reflection on the nature of truth and knowledge, including an essay based on a choice of 10 titles provided by the IBO.
• CAS (creativity, activity, service): Regular commitment over a 18month period plus reflective statements plus portfolio
• Extended essay: a research paper of up to 4000 words supervised by an academic advisor, allowing the student to investigate a topic of special interest, improve writing skills, and develop independent research skills.

Our IB Coordinator, Edna Howard, is happy to answer your questions about everything regarding the IB at DSL. 
Please get in touch via Email: edna.howard@dslondon.org.uk