It is important to note that only schools authorized by the International Baccalaureate can offer the Diploma Programme.

There are several phases to the authorisation process which can be lengthy.

Phase 1 Feasibility study and identification of resources
The school must make an in-depth analysis of the philosophy and curriculum, and identify the resources needed to deliver it. They must also arrange for teaching and administrative staff to undertake IB-approved professional development. This process leads to the filing of Diploma programme application form part A.

Phase 2 Candidate status
Following acceptance of the Diploma programme application form part A, the school is designated an IB candidate school. At this stage, the school has access to the online curriculum centre, teachers attend IB-approved professional development and the school prepares itself administratively and educationally for the programme.

Phase 3 School visit
Provided that all previous stages have been successfully completed, the school then submits Diploma programme part B application form and the school is visited by a regional office IB team. The purpose of this visit is consult those who will be involved in the implementation of the programme; evaluate the school’s preparedness to implement the programme and to complete a report on the school’s commitment and ability to deliver the programme.

The Diploma Programme authorisation process is designed to support schools in making the decision to become IB World Schools and to fully understand the nature and requirements of IB programmes. Schools find this a challenging but rewarding process that can often take two years.

For details of the application process, application forms and guides for schools, please visit the 'Become an IB World School' part of the IB website.

Upon receipt of a formal application to teach the programme, a delegation appointed by the IB visits the school and reports on the school’s capacity to deliver the programme. If the outcome is positive, the school is then authorised to offer the programme and attains the status of IB World School.

The school’s delivery of the programme is evaluated by the IB every five years after authorisation.

For contact details of schools involved in the IB programme in this country and abroad, consult the 'Find an IB World School' section of this page of the website.

For details of UCAS points applicable to the IB, have a look at the UCAS website.