Diploma Programme
(DP)

The IB Diploma Programme (DP) is a rigorous, globally recognised two-year pre-university programme for students in Grades 11 and 12, typically aged 16 to 19. It leads to external IB examinations and is one of the most respected pre-university qualifications in the world, accepted by universities in India and internationally. The DP demands genuine commitment — it is academically challenging — but students of all ability levels who are determined can achieve the Diploma. The programme develops critical thinking, research skills, intercultural understanding, and a broad academic foundation across six subject groups.

DP students at BIS study one subject from each of the six IB subject groups. Group 1 (Language and Literature): English A HL/SL. Group 2 (Language Acquisition): Hindi B HL/SL or Spanish ab initio SL. Group 3 (Individuals and Societies): Business Management, Economics, History, or Psychology HL/SL. Group 4 (Sciences): Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Environmental Systems and Societies, or Design and Technology. Group 5 (Mathematics): Analysis and Approaches HL/SL or Applications and Interpretation HL/SL. Group 6 (Arts): Visual Arts HL/SL. Students choose three subjects at Higher Level (HL) and three at Standard Level (SL).

All DP students study six subjects — three at Higher Level and three at Standard Level. HL subjects involve more teaching hours and greater depth of content, making them suitable for students with a strong interest or aptitude in that area and for university courses that require it. SL subjects cover the core curriculum with less depth and fewer hours. Choosing the right combination of HL and SL subjects is an important part of university planning, and BIS's dedicated university counsellors guide each student through this decision based on their career direction and university requirements.

Each of the six DP subjects is graded on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 7 (highest), giving a maximum of 42 subject points. Students can earn up to 3 additional "bonus points" based on their combined performance in Theory of Knowledge and the Extended Essay, bringing the total possible score to 45 points. The IB Diploma is awarded to students who achieve a minimum of 24 points, subject to certain minimum performance thresholds across the programme and satisfactory completion of CAS. Written examinations are marked by external IB examiners, while some school-based assessments are moderated externally.

The Extended Essay is an independent, self-directed research paper of approximately 4,000 words, completed by all DP students. Students choose a topic of genuine interest within one of the IB subject areas, conduct original research, and write a formal academic essay — an experience that closely mirrors first-year university work. The EE develops the research, analytical, and academic writing skills that universities look for and that students will rely on throughout higher education. It is assessed externally and contributes to the bonus points alongside Theory of Knowledge.

Theory of Knowledge is a unique and compulsory component of the IB Diploma with no direct equivalent in other curricula. It is a philosophical course that asks students to reflect on the nature of knowledge itself — how we know what we know, what counts as evidence, and how knowledge differs across subjects and cultures. TOK develops students' ability to think critically, question assumptions, and engage with ideas at a deeper level. It is assessed through an exhibition and an essay, and contributes to the bonus points alongside the Extended Essay.

CAS is the third core component of the IB Diploma and is a requirement for all DP students. It involves real, hands-on engagement outside the classroom across three strands: Creativity (arts, design, and creative thinking), Activity (physical exercise and sports), and Service (meaningful community contribution). CAS is not a token requirement — students undertake genuine projects, reflect on their experiences, and demonstrate growth. At BIS, CAS activities are embedded into school life through clubs, sports programmes, community projects, and student-led initiatives.

BIS Diploma Programme students have achieved outstanding outcomes. SAT scores consistently reach 1260 and above out of 1600, demonstrating strong academic preparation. Students gain admission to leading universities in India and globally — including institutions in the USA, UK, and Canada. BIS students collectively receive international scholarships exceeding USD 440,000 annually, reflecting the recognition of their academic excellence and holistic profiles by universities worldwide. These results come not from coaching or pressure, but from genuine deep learning.

Absolutely. A common misconception is that the IB Diploma is only for students going abroad. In reality, over 51% of IB graduates in India pursue higher education within the country. The IB Diploma is widely recognised by all major Indian universities. It also excellently prepares students for Indian entrance exams by developing strong reasoning and analytical skills. BIS is additionally the only school in Andhra Pradesh with UCAS (UK Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) affiliation, giving students who do wish to apply to UK universities direct access without additional qualifications.

BIS has a dedicated, full-time, in-house University and Career Counselling cell — the first of its kind in the region. From Grade 11, students receive individual counselling sessions, university profile development, application strategy and essay coaching, college exploration, scholarship and financial aid guidance, and interview preparation. By graduation, students have a clear university direction, a strong application, and in many cases, international scholarship offers. The counselling is built on genuine understanding of each student's strengths and aspirations — not a generic template.