The International Baccalaureate (IB) is an alternative to higher education systems such as A-levels and Scottish Highers which is taught in more than 146 countries worldwide.
The aim of the IB is create well rounded students by making mathematics, humanities, a language and science subject compulsory amongst six subjects. Three are taught at standard level and three at a higher level, all being examined terminally at the end of two years. This structure enables students to select those subjects required for further university studies but to also do subjects which they have a particular interest in. A maximum of 7 points can be achieved in each subject. In addition to taking six academic subjects students must complete a 4000 word extended essay based on a research project, attend a Theory of Knowledge course and complete 150 hours of CAS activity for a further 3 points (NB. CAS – creative, action, service). This totals 45 points overall.
Veterinary universities in the UK tend to request a total number of points overall and specific levels in the higher subjects which are generally those relevant to the university degree.
My personal opinion:
I did the IB and personally found it the best preparation for veterinary school possible. It enabled me to do the scientific subjects required for vet school but to also do subjects which I had a particular enthusiasm and flair for including History and English. I felt more rounded academically as I still retained essay writing skills and was able to develop a language, modern or classical.
Furthermore, the terminal structure of the course gave me excellent preparation for veterinary school at Liverpool which now adopts annual terminal examination as supposed to modular.
Benefits of the IB: