IB Diploma Programme

Diploma Programme at ISB | Ages 16-18

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme at International School Brescia is a globally recognized high school qualification designed for students aged 16 to 18.

As the final stage of the IB continuum, following the Primary Years and Middle Years Programmes, the DP provides a challenging, pre-university curriculum that prepares students for success at top universities worldwide.

International School Brescia has been authorised to deliver the IB Diploma Programme since 2020!

A Seamless Transition to University

Graduating from International School Brescia means more than just earning an IB Diploma. Our dedicated university and career guidance programme ensures that every student is fully prepared for their next steps, whether that’s attending a top university in Italy or abroad.

With the support of our experienced counsellor, students receive:

- 1:1 Guidance on university choices and career paths
- Help with applications, personal statements, and interviews
- Workshops & fairs with universities, professionals, and alumni

With ISB’s expert support, students leave our school not only with a world-class diploma but also with the confidence and preparation needed to thrive in higher education and beyond.

How Does the IB DP Compare to the Italian System?

The IB Diploma Programme at ISB is fully equivalent to Scuola Superiore in Italy and allows students to apply to both Italian and international universities. Specifically, the IB Diploma is recognized as a “Maturità” diploma, equivalent to completing the Final State Exam in Liceo Linguistico (for students focusing on languages and humanities) and Liceo Scientifico (for students focusing on sciences and mathematics).

This means that ISB graduates have the same university access opportunities as students from Italian licei and istituti, while also benefiting from an internationally recognized qualification.

The IB Diploma Programme combines the rigor of Italian education with a global perspective, preparing students for both Italian and international universities.

ISB Grade	Age	Equivalent in the Italian System	Equivalent in the USA System
DP 1	16–17	3° anno Scuola Secondaria di Secondo Grado	Grade 11 (High School)
DP 2 (Final IB Diploma)	17–18	4° anno Scuola Secondaria di Secondo Grado (Maturità Equivalent)	Grade 12 (High School)

What IB Diploma Students Learn at ISB

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP) at ISB offers a broad yet challenging curriculum designed to prepare students for university and life beyond school.

Students typically take six subjects, one from each of the following groups, with the flexibility to replace the Group 6 subject (Arts) with an additional subject from Groups 1–4:

Language & Literature: English A, Italian A, Mother-tongue (with private tutor)
Language Acquisition: Italian B, Italian ab initio, Spanish B
Individuals & Societies: History, Economics
Experimental Sciences: Biology, Physics
Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation (SL or HL)
Electives: Visual Arts or another subject from Groups 1–4

Alongside their subject choices, all IB students at ISB complete the IB Diploma Core, which deepens their learning and builds key skills for university and life:

Theory of Knowledge (TOK): Encourages students to think critically about how knowledge is constructed across disciplines.
Extended Essay (EE): A 4,000-word independent research project that builds university-level research, writing, and critical thinking skills.
Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS): Involves students in artistic pursuits, physical activity, and community engagement, fostering balance, leadership, and global awareness.

Why Choose International School Brescia for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme?

Personalized Learning & Guidance

Our dedicated international faculty provide individual mentorship and one-on-one university guidance, supporting applications, career planning, and entry into top universities worldwide.

Global Experience in a Strategic Location

Situated between Brescia and Lake Garda, ISB offers a peaceful environment, full English immersion with strong Italian support, and prepares students to succeed globally while staying connected locally.

Comprehensive Student Life

From school transport and high-quality lunches to leadership programs, extracurricular activities, and community service, students enjoy a well-rounded, supportive, and engaging school experience.

Why Choose International School Brescia for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme?

Strategic Location: Situated between Brescia and Lake Garda, ISB offers a peaceful setting while remaining accessible to families in the region.
Personalized University Guidance: One-on-one support for applications, career planning, and admissions to top universities worldwide.
Comprehensive School Services: School transport and a high-quality lunch program ensure convenience for families.
Dedicated and International Faculty: Passionate educators provide personalized attention and mentorship.
Beyond the Classroom: Extracurricular activities, leadership programs, and community service opportunities help students develop well-rounded skills.
Bilingual Advantage: Full English immersion with strong Italian language support, ensuring fluency in both languages.

We’d love to show you around, answer your questions, and help you explore whether ISB is the right fit for your family.