
5 Reasons Why to Choose the IB Diploma
Deciding on the IB Diploma? Learn 5 key reasons why choosing the IB prepares you for university success, fosters independent thinking, and keeps your options open.
5 Reasons to Choose the IB Diploma
Are you stuck in limbo trying to decide whether the IB is right for you? If so, here are 5 reasons why we think you should shake off any doubts and go for it!
1. It’s Well Rounded
If you can’t decide what subjects to take, not to worry! You choose 6 subjects in total. You’ll pick one subject from each subject group, including Maths, Science, Humanities, Languages and so on. You will choose to take 3 of these subjects at a Standard Level, and 3 at a Higher Level. Each subject is graded out of 7 points. As a result, you aren’t forced to drastically narrow down your subject choices. Instead, you’re able to keep your options open.

You pick one subject from each group around the wheel (ibo.org)
2. Beyond the Classroom
The IBDP is by no means purely academic. Emphasis is placed on the person as a whole. Three of the 45 points available are awarded for the Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge and CAS (creativity, action, service) components. Hence, you are able to keep up extracurricular activities such as arts and sports, as well as exploring new interests within the CAS programme.

3. Independent Thinking
The overriding aim of the IBDP is:
“To develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect.” (IBO, 2017)
You’ll be encouraged to think independently and creatively, because at the core of the IB’s values are Theory of Knowledge (ToK) and the Extended Essay (EE). These are non-examination based requirements of the course which push you to think critically and openly about global topics. Since each student writes a 4,000 word Extended Essay on a topic of their choosing, you have a great opportunity to pursue an academic interest in whatever area you please!
4. You’ll Be Ahead of the Game When it Comes to University
IB students experience the lowest dropout rate at University, highlighting how well the IB prepares you well for Higher Education. You will be nurtured into an independent thinking, inquiring and self-motivated mind. Notably, IB students consistently have a higher acceptance rate to top universities when compared to other academic programmes. What’s more, the average starting salary for IB alumni is on average £1,500 higher compared with those who took the UK National Curriculum of A-levels!

The IB Kid | Twitter
5. You’re Not Alone!
There’s no doubt about it, the IB is on the up. The number of students taking the IB is increasing year upon year, with over 150,000 students sitting their IB exams last May. Furthermore, currently over 4,700 schools offer the IBDP worldwide, an increase of 40% since 2012!
So with hope, we’ve opened your mind to some of the main perks of the IB. If you do go ahead and take it on, rest assured that we’ll be here to support you every step of your IB journey!

We’re the Lanterna Team — a group of 600+ IB expert tutors, ranging from 45/45 IB graduates to IB teachers with 30+ years of teaching and examiner experience.
For over 20 years, we’ve supported tens of thousands IB students worldwide with one clear focus: making high achievement feel more doable. Our team of experienced tutors have come together to combine their deep curriculum knowledge with practical strategies that are proven to work.
Whether you’re building strong foundations in DP1, pushing for a final stretch in DP2, or looking for clarity on what to prioritise, we’re here to help you study smarter, stay confident, and get results.
Why Lanterna?
The IB Diploma offers a holistic, well-rounded education, fostering independent thinking and preparing students exceptionally well for university. It encourages critical thinking, global awareness, and participation in extracurricular activities through its core components like CAS, TOK, and the Extended Essay.
The IB Diploma requires students to choose 6 subjects from different subject groups (Languages, Sciences, Humanities, Maths, Arts), with 3 at Higher Level (HL) and 3 at Standard Level (SL). This structure prevents early specialisation, keeping university options open and ensuring a comprehensive academic foundation.
Beyond the six subjects, the IB Diploma includes three core components: Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS), Theory of Knowledge (TOK), and the Extended Essay (EE). These components develop students' personal growth, critical thinking, research skills, and engagement with the wider community.
IB students consistently show lower university dropout rates and higher acceptance rates to top universities. The programme cultivates independent thinking, research skills, and time management, which are crucial for higher education. It also encourages a global perspective valued by universities worldwide.
Absolutely. Our Student Success Experts and experienced tutors can provide insights into the IB curriculum, subject choices, and what to expect. We can help you weigh the pros and cons based on your academic goals and learning style, ensuring you make an informed decision.
Lanterna provides personalised tutoring across all IB subjects and core components (EE, TOK, CAS). Our tutors, many of whom are 40+ point IB graduates or experienced IB teachers with examiner experience, offer expert guidance to help you excel, from understanding concepts to mastering exam techniques and IA/EE writing.
The Lanterna IB consultation is a free, no-pressure 20-30 minute session with an IB Student Success Expert. It's designed to help students and parents get clarity on their IB journey, discuss challenges, and receive personalised advice and a clear plan for moving forward.
Yes, the consultation is completely free of charge, and there is absolutely no obligation to book tutoring afterwards. Our goal is to provide valuable guidance and support, helping you understand your options and next steps, regardless of whether you choose to continue with Lanterna's services.
The consultation is ideal for any IB student or parent who has questions about the IB Diploma, needs help with subject choices, is struggling with a specific component, or simply wants to ensure they're on the right track. It's for anyone seeking expert advice and a personalised strategy.
You'll walk away with a clear understanding of your current situation, a personalised plan of action, and prioritised next steps. Our Student Success Experts will help you identify what to focus on and what to avoid, giving you confidence and direction for your IB studies.
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