International Baccalaureate (IB) is a globally recognized organization that runs two prevalent educational programs. This institution offers a Diploma Program (DP) and 1-year Certificate Program with exclusive and balanced curricula. But often, the parents of the students find it hard to choose between them. Here we will discuss the main difference between IB Diploma and IB certificate and which one is better for you.
In short, IB Diploma Program (DP) is a 2-year and Certificate Program is a 1-year curriculum for students. The IBDP is a broad-based, academically exciting, and balanced program. Alternatively, IB Certificate is a challenging and engaging program with a shorter duration than IBDP. Both programs make the students capable of success at university and in life beyond.
IB programs are accessible and taught in around 141 countries and 4057 schools worldwide. Students remain mainly engaged in learning English, foreign language, science, and others. However, you can increase your knowledge about these programs in detail by reading this article. Stay with me!
What is the International Baccalaureate Diploma?
The DP is suitable for 16-19 years old students. It is a 2-years education program divided into six courses, three at the higher level and three at the standard level.
The higher-level courses are more challenging than standard-level courses. Similarly, these courses cover a greater depth of content than the next one. Students must complete all six courses to receive the IB Diploma. After having the Diploma, students can think critically, solve problems, and interconnect effectively.
What is the International Baccalaureate Certificate Program?
The International Baccalaureate Certificate is a one-year educational program. It is divided into three courses, two at the higher level and one at the standard level. Like the DP, it also remains more stimulating and more versatile at a higher level than the standard level.
Universities universally recognize the program as an excellent way to flourish in the future. After achieving the Certificate, students can find themselves in a better version to tackle all the future challenges and win over them.
What are the courses of the International Baccalaureate?
Diploma and Certificate Programs are integral parts of IBO’s Career-related Program (CP). The schools can select from 6 subject groups for their students:
- Language acquisition.
- Studies in language and literature.
- Individuals and societies.
- Sciences.
- Mathematics.
- The arts.
The Estimated Cost of IB Diploma & Certificate Programs
The cost of the International Baccalaureate programs varies depending on the country in which you study. The average cost of the Diploma is $11,650 in the United States. Again, in the United Kingdom, the average cost is £8,300. For Certificate, it costs half of IBDP as the students study for one year in this program.
Why Should You Take International Baccalaureate Programs?
Whether you choose a Diploma or Certificate program, you can get almost similar benefits. The only thing you may face is that Diploma takes two years, and the Certificate takes one year to conduct the study.
Suppose you are considering an IB program for your child. Then, here are some of the benefits that you can expect:
1. A rigorous and challenging curriculum
IB programs are known for their rigorous and challenging curriculum. Students are required to think critically and creatively and develop strong research and writing skills. Also, the curricula are planned to encourage students to become well-rounded, knowledgeable, and inquisitive individuals.
2. Recognition by leading universities
Leading universities around the world recognize these programs. Many universities offer unique benefits and advantages to IB students, such as advanced placement and credit for IB courses.
3. A global perspective
IB Certificate and Diploma programs provide students with a universal view. Students can learn about different cultures and ways of life. They can develop an understanding and appreciation of other cultures.
4. A supportive and inclusive community
IB schools are typically supportive and inclusive communities. Again, the programs promote diversity and cultural understanding. They typically have higher graduation rates and lower drop-out rates than non-IB schools.
5. A commitment to service
Students are encouraged to be full-of-life citizens and make a difference in their communities. They are required to complete a service-learning project. Even many IB schools have service-learning programs that allow students to get involved in their communities.
Which Schools are Eligible for International Baccalaureate Diploma?
Any school can apply for the implementation of DP. But they need to pass the authorization process conducted by IB. One more thing, this program is suitable for only 16-19 years students. The IB believes these schools build the structure of understanding and institute.
English, Spanish, and French are three acceptable languages for teaching IB programs. But some individual subjects can be taught in available additional languages as the parts of particular public or private association.
Which One is Better: IB Diploma Or IB Certificate?
Both Diploma and Certificate are suitable for students. But most students target to achieve the Diploma degree as it offers more scopes of learning and experiencing versatility.
A student must complete three elements to achieve the Diploma degree: Creativity Activity Service (CAS), Theory of Knowledge (TOK), and Extended Essay (EE). They should obtain at least an E in EE and TOK.
If they fail to score, they must fulfill other requirements and a total of 24 points to receive IB Diploma. But these students may be issued a Certificate when they fail to meet the minimum score requirements. In this sense, Diploma students are more intelligent and better than Certificate students.
In the case of the IB Certificate, the students do not need to take the CAS, EE, and TOK. Instead, they should be part of a career-based course. This course is known as Personal and Professional Skills (PPS) and Ethics (PPS).
Even the students must complete the Reflective Project instead of writing an EE. This project is a 3,000-word essay based on your career-choice dilemma. Again, the Diploma wins as it has more versatility and practical design.
If you are considering educational expenses, you may prefer a Certificate. But, Diploma is worth the money as students can make themselves more successful by completing this program after two years.
Conclusion
What do you think now? Who is the winner between IB Diploma and IB Certificate?
Except for the educational expenses and duration, the Diploma is better than the Certificate from IB. Students can learn more and conduct multiple elements in IBDP. Also, they can be more competent and more fruitful in the future.
Still, it’s up to you what you should choose for yourself or your children if you are parents. I think you have the concept clear now.
Have a great day!
