IB in Singapore: Is it the right choice for your child? Pros & cons explained!
In today’s rapidly evolving world, education plays a crucial role in shaping a child’s future.
The International Baccalaureate (IB) program has gained significant recognition for its rigorous academic structure and emphasis on holistic development, critical thinking and global perspectives.
As Singapore continues to embrace IB education in both international and selected MOE schools, many parents are considering whether this pathway is the right fit for their child.
Before we dive in, here’s what you need to know about the IB at a glance.
What is IB?
Founded in 1968, the IB provides high quality and challenging educational programmes at every stage of the child’s academic journey while offering a holistic educational environment.
It is known for its high academic standards and mission to develop global citizens of the 21st century, with a curriculum that places great emphasis on cultivating creativity and imagination.
IB Singapore schools offer there are three main different levels of programmes:
- IB Primary Years Programme (for students from Grades 1 – 5)
- IB Middle Years Programme (for students from Grades 6 – 8)
- IGCSE or CBSE (for students from Grades 9 – 10)
- IB Diploma (for students from Grades 11 – 12)
While IB is often seen as a gateway to top universities worldwide, its demanding coursework and broad-based curriculum may not suit every student.
This article explores the pros and cons of IB, so that you can make an informed decision based on your child’s learning style, academic strengths and future aspirations.
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Pathway Jenna IB Diploma Program Student Profile: Jenna enjoys school and generally does well in almost all her classes. If given a choice, she will choose more challenging courses over easier ones and likes the challenge. She has a good support network of supportive parents, like minded peers and also good work habits. Jenna is involved in many after-school activities and seems to be able to balance it all, with a little extra effort. She has been investigating colleges since grade 10 and is looking forward
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Pathway Lily HSC Student Profile: Lily has always had a passion for science and math, and it shows in her consistently high marks she earns in those courses. She does well in all her courses though and has shown a consistent record of above average grades all through secondary school. But Lily wishes there was a way to specialize a little, and this route seems to be a good opportunity to allow her to do that. Lily gets along well with all her teachers, is involved in a lot of after-school activities and looks forward to being successful at university. |
By taking into consideration the above student profiles of Jenna, who thrives in IB’s interdisciplinary approach, and Lily, who excels in the more specialised HSC pathway, you can gain a better understanding and figure out which pathway is right for your child.
The Higher School Certificate (HSC) is another pathway that AIS offers to students to further their higher education. It’s a globally recognised qualification given to students upon completion of their final two years of high school.
Pros & cons of IB in Singapore (Is it for your child?)
1. Academic rigour & holistic learning (pro)
One of IB’s greatest strengths is its focus on critical thinking, research skills and interdisciplinary learning. The program challenges students to make meaningful connections across subjects, preparing them for the complexities of real-world problem-solving.
Key components such as the Theory of Knowledge (TOK) course encourage students to question how they acquire knowledge, while the Extended Essay (EE) fosters independent research skills.
Additionally, the Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) requirement ensures that students engage in extracurricular activities, community service, and personal development beyond academics.
For students like Jenna, who enjoys intellectual challenges and actively participates in after-school activities, the IB program provides a well-balanced education. She thrives in an environment that pushes her to take on difficult courses and explore university options early. However, this level of academic rigour may not be for everyone.
2. Global recognition & university admissions (pro)
The IB Diploma is highly regarded by universities worldwide, including top institutions in Singapore, the UK, the US, and Australia. Its emphasis on independent learning, time management and research skills makes IB graduates well-prepared for higher education. Many universities value IB students’ ability to think critically and work autonomously, with some institutions even offering advanced standing or course credits based on IB scores.
This global recognition is particularly beneficial for students planning to study abroad. Jenna, for example, has been researching universities since Grade 10, a proactive approach that IB strongly encourages.
The program equips students with the skills needed to navigate university admissions with confidence, making it an excellent choice for those aiming for competitive institutions.
3. Heavy workload & stress management (con)
Despite its many advantages, IB is widely regarded as one of the most demanding pre-university programs. Students must juggle six subjects, coursework, internal assessments and core IB components, all while maintaining extracurricular commitments.
Effective time management and resilience are crucial, as the workload can be overwhelming, leading to stress and burnout for some students.
While Jenna enjoys the challenge, not all students thrive in such a high-pressure environment. For instance, Lily, who follows the HSC pathway, excels in science and prefers a more focused academic structure.
Unlike IB, which requires students to balance a broad range of subjects, HSC allows for specialisation in key areas, reducing the workload in unrelated subjects. Students who prefer to concentrate on their strengths or pursue areas they are interested in may find alternative pathways like A-Levels or HSC less stressful.
4. Suitability for different learning styles (Con)
The IB program’s inquiry-based approach and emphasis on independent research may not be suitable for all learning styles. After all, some students thrive in structured environments where direct instruction is the primary mode of learning.
IB encourages students to take ownership of their education, which can be challenging for those who struggle with self-discipline or prefer a more guided learning experience.
For Lily, a student with a passion for science, early specialisation in HSC allows her to dive deep into her interests without the added pressure of IB’s interdisciplinary requirements.
In comparison, Jenna’s curiosity and willingness to tackle multiple subjects make her a strong candidate for IB. Choosing between these pathways depends on whether a student enjoys broad-based learning or prefers subject-specific depth.
5. Cost & availability in Singapore (Con & Pro)
Another factor to consider is the cost and availability of IB in Singapore.
The program is primarily offered in international schools and selected MOE institutions, making it a more expensive option than local pathways such as the A-Levels.
Hence, you must weigh the financial investment against the potential benefits, especially if your child intends to pursue higher education abroad.
However, for students who aspire to study at top global universities, the long-term advantages of IB may outweigh the costs. Schools such as Anglo-Chinese School (Independent) and St. Joseph’s Institution offer IB as an alternative to the A-Level track, making it more accessible to Singaporean students.
Additionally, some institutions provide scholarships or financial aid to help offset tuition fees, in the event you may require some support financially.
Set the foundation for your child’s success with IB at AIS
With a world-class IB curriculum designed to nurture curious minds, foster global perspectives and equip students with the skills they need to thrive, AIS is committed to providing the best IB education for your child.
From personalised learning pathways to a supportive, dynamic community, we empower every child to reach their full potential and gain access to top universities worldwide.
Book your tour today and take the first step towards your child’s bright future!
