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FAQ

Question 1: What is the application process for the IB Diploma Programme?

The Diploma Programme at Carson Graham has an application process for interested Grade 10 students. The process involves completing a comprehensive application package. Eligible students must be in good academic standing, with a minimum overall average of 86% or MYP level 6 in academic courses.

All grade 10 students who meet the admission requirements are welcome to apply. Students living outside of Carson Graham's catchment area may also submit an application. The current cohort includes students from North Vancouver, British Columbia, and abroad.

Question 2: Are there any prerequisites for a student interested in entering the IB Diploma Programme?

The Diploma Programme is suitable for students who are well-rounded in all subject areas. We look for high marks in grades 9 and 10. Experience in the MYP is an asset. For current Carson students, we strongly recommend Enriched Mathematics 10 or math at a higher level. Our Diploma Programme curriculum requires students take Language Acquisition courses in either French B or Spanish B. There are no introductory classes available, therefor students are required to have some previous experience in either French or Spanish. In some cases, students speak French or Spanish as their first language. Students are required to study a Language Acquisition course in their non-native language.

Question 3: Is the IB Diploma Programme available only to top students?

The Diploma Program is well suited for students planning to attend university after graduation. Any students who meet the admissions criteria are invited to apply to the IB Diploma Programme. We believe that most of our students are able to obtain an IB Diploma if they devote the necessary time in addition to their involvement in a variety of school and community activities.

Question 4: What are the requirements to obtain the IB Diploma?

Students can take a variety of course options to obtain the IB Diploma. Students work with IB coordinators and counsellors to plan their course selections in alignment with their plans for post-secondary. Diploma candidates will complete Internal and External Assessments and examinations in the six subject areas. Internal Assessments are assessed by Carson Graham Secondary teachers and moderated by external moderators, while external examinations are marked by IB examiners around the world. Please note that the May Examinations are set by IB, and the students must be available to write on the set dates.

There are six subject areas: Language and Literature (English), Language Acquisition (French or Spanish), Individuals and Societies (Geography or Global Politics), Sciences (Biology, Chemistry or Physics), Mathematics (Analysis and Approaches or Applications and Interpretations), and Visual Arts (Art or another course from the previous list). In addition, students must also meet the Core requirements. The Core is comprised three components: Theory of Knowledge (course within the timetable), Creativity, Activity and Service (ongoing engagement in activities that support students' personal interests), and the Extended Essay (4000 word essay).

Question 5: Do all students in the IB Diploma Programme generally earn the IB Diploma?

Around the world, approximately eighty percent of the students who participate in the IB Diploma Programme earn the IB Diploma. In Canada, approximately 87% of Diploma Candidates receive the IB Diploma; and the numbers in British Columbia are even higher. Approximately 89% of B.C. Diploma Candidates earn the IB Diploma. Those candidates who do not achieve the IB Diploma will receive IB Certificates for individual IB courses successfully completed, and they will graduate with the B.C. Ministry of Education Dogwood Diploma.

Question 6: How do students benefit from obtaining an IB Diploma? Will the Diploma Programme help me get into university?

The intellectual rigour and high academic standards prepare students for higher education and assist them in the university admissions process. Most importantly, students gain a much deeper understanding of international affairs and diverse cultures. The goal of the Diploma Programme is to help students to prepare for university. Achieving the Diploma will give students the skills they need to be successful in their first year and beyond. Ultimately, university admissions are based on high grades and commitment to academic achievement. Participation in Diploma Programme does not guarantee acceptance into university.

Question 7: What is the difference between DP and AP courses?

Both the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) and Advanced Placement (AP) programs offer enriched secondary school opportunities. Both programs are designed to prepare students for post-secondary schools. There are 3 significant differences between these programs: 1) DP students take all of their courses across a broad and holistic curriculum. Whereas AP students generally take courses in the specific subject area(s) in which they are most successful. 2) Both DP and AP programs give students the opportunity to earn advanced credits towards their undergraduate degrees. However, eligible AP students may only receive single course credits, whereas DP students may qualify to receive credits for their entire first year of university. For some students, this makes a significant financial impact on their studies. 3) DP students will experience courses that meet rigorous international standards. The academic courses, as well as the components of the Core, will ensure that these students are well prepared for universities around the world. AP courses are assessed by locally developed standards.

Question 8: Is it possible for students take individual courses (partial Diploma) instead of the full Diploma?

Carson students may select up to 3 Diploma courses as part of their regular course selection for grade 11. There is no additional application required.

Students who live outside of Carson's catchment area are not eligible for a partial Diploma courses, since students would not receive a full timetable for graduation. Therefor, out-of-catchment students are encouraged to apply for the full Diploma Programme instead.

Question 9: Do I need to submit an application for the full Diploma Programme and the partial Diploma as well?

In order to be considered for both the full and partial Diploma Programmes, you only need to submit the full Diploma application package. Once you have completed the interview process, you may receive a letter or acceptance into programme. Once this has happened, you may respond with your intention to enrol in the partial diploma instead.

Question 10: What if I change mind?

Once students enrol in the DP, they are expected to complete the two-year programme. In rare cases, students may change their mind at the end of grade 11 and return to BC Ministry courses. These decisions are made in consultation with the student, their family, IB coordinators and grade councillors.

For additional questions, please contact us at 604.903.3555 or email Cora Pross or Liz Thornhill