IB Diploma Programme

Introducing the IB Diploma Programme

Stamford American International School offers the IB Diploma Programme for students in Grades 11 and 12. The IB Diploma is one of two graduating pathways at Stamford American – students choosing this path complete a structured two-year program combining academic depth with personal growth.

Students who prefer a more flexible approach can pursue our individualized pathway, combining AP, BTEC, IB Course Certificates, and Stamford courses. Both pathways lead to a US-accredited High School Diploma.

Learn more about the AP program at Stamford American

Explore our BTEC Progam

What Is the IB Diploma Programme?

The IB Diploma Programme is an academically rigorous two-year program where students take six subjects (three at Higher Level, three at Standard Level) alongside three core components: Theory of Knowledge, the Extended Essay, and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS). This structure develops critical thinking, research skills, and international-mindedness.

Age Group

The IB Diploma targets students aged 16-19. This program is ideal for high school students who are ready for a college-level curriculum and are motivated to develop a broad range of academic and interpersonal skills.

Explore our full high school program

Key Features

Globally Recognized

Valued by universities in over 124 countries.

Flexible Pathways

Students can pursue the full IB Diploma or take individual courses.

Diverse Course Options

Offers courses across multiple disciplines.

Personal Growth

Includes Creativity, Activity, Service, fostering creativity, physical activity, and community engagement.

Core Components

Theory of Knowledge (TOK)

Engages students in exploring the nature of knowledge and its limitations, fostering critical thinking.

Extended Essay

A self-directed research project culminating in a 4,000-word essay, helping students build research and writing skills.

Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)

Involves students in projects and activities outside of the classroom, promoting personal growth and social responsibility.

Curriculum Framework

The IB Diploma curriculum is composed of six subject groups and the core components:

Studies in Language and Literature
Language Acquisition
Individuals and Societies
Sciences
Mathematics
The Arts

Students take three subjects at Higher Level (HL) and three at Standard Level (SL), gaining both depth and breadth in their studies.

IB Diploma Results at Stamford American

Stamford American students consistently outperform the global average on the IB Diploma.

Class of 2025 Results

Metric	SAIS	Global Average
IB Diploma pass rate	97%	81%
Average Diploma score	34.4	30.58
Students scoring 40+	13%	–
Highest score	42 / 45	–
Bilingual Diplomas earned	30%	–

See full results and university placements

Academic and College Counseling Support

Personalized Guidance for Creative and Vocational Pathways

Every IB Diploma student at Stamford American receives personalized academic and college counseling from Grade 9. Our team of five dedicated Academic and College Counselors works with each student and their family to select the right subject combination and prepare for university applications.

The IB Diploma is recognized by universities in 124+ countries. Counselors help students identify universities where the IB Diploma provides the strongest advantage, and support the full application process including college research, application strategy, and essay preparation.

Learn more about our college counseling program

Facilities

Where IB Diploma Learning Happens

Creative arts studios for visual art and design
500-seat Reagan Theater for live performance
Dedicated rehearsal and performance spaces
Recording and music production rooms
Two full-size gymnasiums
Outdoor sports facilities
Multiple swimming pools

Explore our campus facilities and take a virtual tour.

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Where Our Graduates Go

Region	Percentage
United States	45%
United Kingdom	31%
Canada	7%
Australia	4%
Singapore	3%
Other regions	10%

The IB Diploma is recognized by universities in 124+ countries, providing graduates with options worldwide.

See the full university placement list

Why Choose the IB Programme at Stamford American?

Consistently Strong Results

Stamford American students achieve a 97% IB Diploma pass rate, compared to the global average of 81%. The Class of 2025 averaged 34.4 points against a 30.58 global average, with 13% of students scoring 40 or above out of 45.

Recognized by Universities in 124+ Countries

The IB Diploma is one of the most widely recognized pre-university qualifications in the world. At Stamford American, 45% of graduates continue to universities in the United States and 31% in the United Kingdom.

Academic Depth with Personal Growth

The IB Diploma combines six subject areas with three core components: Theory of Knowledge, the Extended Essay, and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS). Students develop critical thinking, independent research skills, and community engagement alongside their academic studies. 30% of the Class of 2025 earned Bilingual Diplomas.

Recognized Outcomes Beyond Stamford American

A study using National Student Clearinghouse data found that 74% of IB Diploma graduates in the United States enrolled in college immediately, compared to 64% nationally, with a six-year graduation rate of 86% versus 68% (IBO, 2024). In the United Kingdom, a Higher Education Statistics Agency study found IB Diploma students were 57% more likely to attend a top-20 university and more likely to earn first-class honours than A-level counterparts. These patterns are consistent with Stamford American results, where 97% of the Class of 2025 passed and graduates were accepted to universities in 22 countries.

Next Step After the IB Diploma Programme

IB Diploma students are well-equipped to transition into higher education, with many universities worldwide recognizing the IB Diploma for admission and granting college credit for strong IB scores. Graduates can enter university programs with advanced standing, giving them a competitive edge in academic and career pursuits.

Admissions Process

Stamford American International School accepts applications year-round, subject to availability, via our online application system. Placement is confirmed only upon receiving an official letter from our enrollment team.

Apply Online

The Student Support Program is currently at full capacity for all grades, and waitlisted applicants will be prioritized if spaces become available. Application outcomes for Language Learners (KG2-Grade 10) will be released from March for Semester 1 (August-December) and from October for Semester 2 (January-June).

For availability inquiries or campus visits, contact Admissions at +65 6653 2949 or complete our inquiry form.

Frequently Asked Questions

What IB Diploma results do Stamford American students achieve?

Stamford American students consistently outperform global averages. The Class of 2025 achieved a 97% pass rate (global average: 81%) with an average score of 34.4 (global average: 30.58). Thirteen percent of students scored 40 points or above, and 30% earned a Bilingual Diploma.

What is the difference between the IB Diploma and the individualized pathway?

The IB Diploma is a structured two-year program where students take six subjects plus three core components. The individualized pathway lets students combine AP courses, BTEC qualifications, IB Course Certificates, and Stamford courses into a flexible program. Both pathways lead to a US-accredited High School Diploma. Students choose their pathway with guidance from academic and college counselors.

How does the IB Diploma prepare students for university?

The IB Diploma develops critical thinking, research, and independent learning through the Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge, and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS). These skills are valued by universities in 124+ countries. At Stamford American, academic and college counselors support every student through the university application process from Grade 9.

What is the time commitment for the IB Diploma?

The IB Diploma Programme typically requires a significant time commitment, involving around 20-25 hours per week for coursework, studying, and extracurricular activities. This includes six subjects, the Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) projects, and the Extended Essay (EE), demanding strong time management and dedication.

Can students switch between pathways?

Students select their pathway at the start of Grade 11. With guidance from academic and college counselors, students can adjust their program at the end of Grade 11 if their goals change. The most seamless transition into the IB Diploma is from the MYP, as it aligns with the program’s academic structure.

See the IB Diploma in Action

The best way to understand the IB Diploma is to experience it firsthand. A personal tour includes a walk-through of the research spaces, science laboratories, and learning environments, a chance to see the IB's inquiry-driven approach in the classroom, and a one-on-one conversation with our admissions team about how the IB Diploma aligns with your child's university goals. For families based overseas or unable to visit in person, our admissions team offers a live virtual tour - a guided presentation of the campus, facilities, and programs tailored to your child's interests and goals.

Book A Personal Tour Schedule A Virtual Tour

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