Frequently Asked Questions

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) was launched in 1968 with the essential mission of preparing high school learners for success in higher education with an educational foundation in global mindedness (The International Baccalaureate, 2015). The Programme challenges students in grades 11 and 12 to think globally as they grow in knowledge and to participate holistically in each of their six subject areas aligned with ten learner profiles: inquirers, knowledgeable, thinkers, communicators, principled, open-minded, caring, risk-takers, balanced, and reflective (The International Baccalaureate, 2015).

The IB “aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable, and caring young people who help create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect.” (IBO https://ibo.org/about-the-ib/mission/) 

The United States has 1,569 IB World Schools with one or more of the three I.B. Programmes: 440 schools offer the Primary Years Programme (PYP), 544 schools offer the Middle Years Programme (MYP), and 828 schools offer the Diploma Programme (D.P.) (The International Baccalaureate, 2015). In addition, approximately 40 private schools in the U.S., among which only a handful of U.S. Islamic schools, are verified with an I.B. Programme, including the American Youth Academy.

Many universities in the U.S. and around the world recognize the value of the IB Diploma and Higher Level IB exam scores by granting college credits to eligible students. It is advisable for students to directly discuss credit transfer policies with the universities they are interested in attending. For more detailed information, students can visit the following link: https://ibo.org/university-admission/find-countries-and-universities-that-recognize-the-ib/

In the case of Florida universities, the state law (Title XLVIII Chapter 1007) stipulates that students can be awarded a maximum of 30 semester credit hours based on the IB program. These credits are specified in the statewide articulation agreement (required by s. 1007.23(1)). Typically, 30 semester credit hours are equivalent to one year of full-time, college-level study.
 

Earning the IB Diploma often allows students to enter college at a sophomore level, providing them with advanced standing compared to starting as freshmen. For students who don't pursue the IB Diploma, specific courses they have completed may be evaluated for potential college credit.
 

For those applying to the University of South Florida, you can find credit-by-exam equivalents at http://ugs.usf.edu/credit-by-exam/?page=exam&exam=IB

The IB Diploma Programme (DP) curriculum encompasses an Extended Essay and involves fulfilling CAS (Creativity, Action, and Service) hours, along with participating in a Theory of Knowledge (TOK) class as a core curriculum. The TOK class is exclusive to IB and encourages students to critically examine the foundations of knowledge, acknowledge subjective and ideological biases in expertise, and develop analytical skills in evaluating evidence presented in rational arguments. In addition to the core curriculum, students select classes from six subject groups.
 

The IB DP offers a challenging yet comprehensive curriculum that encompasses the study of languages (both mother tongue and a foreign language), social sciences, experimental sciences, mathematics, and typically an arts subject. At American Youth Academy, we also provide an additional language acquisition course, Spanish ab initio, which can serve as a substitute for an arts subject.
 

For students feeling overwhelmed, there are several resources available at AYA to help manage their academic responsibilities and reduce stress. First and foremost, students are advised to maintain good time management and avoid procrastination by using a planner to keep track of project and test due dates. Additionally, the school provides access to ManageBac, an online tool that facilitates communication among teachers, students, and parents, ensuring everyone stays on track.

To tackle academic challenges, students are encouraged to take proactive steps. If they are struggling in a class, the first course of action should be to discuss the concerns with the teacher directly. AYA also offers after-school tutoring on-site to provide additional academic support. If needed, students can seek outside tutoring independently or form study groups with their classmates for collaborative learning.
 

Moreover, AYA's Guidance Counselor and IB Coordinator are available for students to communicate and seek guidance on academic and personal matters. The school prioritizes its students' well-being and ensures a supportive environment for their overall growth and success. By fostering strong collaboration between teachers, staff, and students, AYA aims to create a cohesive and nurturing learning community
 

AYA's Pre-IB Programme and the IB DP Programme have distinct focuses and are designed for different grade levels.
 

AYA's Pre-IB Programme is tailored for 10th-grade students, emphasizing the development of essential skills such as research, writing, time-management, and leadership. Students participate in activities like visiting the University of South Florida's library to become familiar with college-level resources and engage in team-building exercises. They are also taught effective time organization using planners and learn to apply American Psychological Association (APA) research and writing techniques to enhance their critical thinking and writing abilities.

On the other hand, AYA's IB DP Programme is specifically offered to high school juniors and seniors. It centers on six subject groups, supplemented by its core curriculum and Qur'an and Islamic Studies. It is essential to note that while various institutions may offer "Pre-IB" Programmes, the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) does not officially recognize them. Nevertheless, as an IB World School, American Youth Academy has introduced AYA's Pre-IB Programme to address the academic needs based on historical and behavioral data specific to its student population.
 

IB students have been successful in their university admissions, with recipients of the IB diploma enjoying a high acceptance rate at both state and private universities. Moreover, some universities even offer scholarships to IB DP graduates. To earn the IB diploma, students are required to test in six subject areas and must receive an average of 4 out of 7 on their exams. There are additional specifics regarding these scores, such as internal assessments and various types of evaluations, including written reflections for Creativity, Action, and Service (CAS) projects, essays for Theory of Knowledge (TOK), and an Extended Essay (EE). For more detailed information, students can refer to http://www.ibo.org/en/programmes/diploma-programme/assessment-and-exams/

To ensure their children's success in the IB Programme, guardians and parents can take several supportive measures. While the IB Programme is challenging, it shouldn't become overwhelming. AYA's Pre-IB Programme lays the foundation for time and activity management, fostering success when students transition to the IB DP courses. Here are some ways parents can assist their children:

• Stay Engaged: Parents should stay informed about their children's academic progress by using ManageBac to monitor grades and activities online. Addressing any lack of progress early can prevent long-term issues.
• Attend Meet the Teacher Events: Participating in these events allows parents to know their child's teachers, understand classroom expectations, and be aware of grading policies.
• Communication: If any concerns arise regarding a student's progress, parents should initiate communication with the classroom teacher first, as many issues can be resolved through this direct approach.
• Utilize School Support: AYA's Guidance Counselor and IB Coordinator are available to provide assistance and guidance whenever needed.
• Create a Study-Friendly Environment: Ensure your child has a quiet place to study and enough dedicated time for their studies. Encourage them to follow a weekly planner to manage tasks effectively.
• Promote Healthy Habits: Ensure that students maintain a balanced lifestyle by consuming healthy foods, receiving proper health care, and getting adequate rest.
  By offering support and fostering a conducive learning environment, parents can help their children excel in the IB Programme.