Expert: jessalyn - 2/28/2001

Question
Were you in the International Baccalaureate program? If so, could you tell me how much of an impact it had you your application? Thanks

Answer
Hi! I confess: before I got your question, I had never heard of the International Baccalaureate program.  So I did some research on the program, and it seems like it is a fabulous thing.  It reminds me of the AP exams that I took when I was in high school, but since you are getting a degree rather than only credit for the tests, it looks very favorable on your application.  Not only have you gone through a rigorous academic program, but you have a lot of credit to your name.  I would say that admissions officials would be very impressed with it.  It proves that you are taking courses that constantly challenge you, as opposed to easier ones.  The harder the courses you are taking, the more respect the admissions people have for you.  And with the degree and credit you receive, it will increase, if not guarantee, your status.  When doing some research I found out that of IB students:
- Most earned between half a year and a full year of college credit.
- Sixty percent became honor students at university.
- Seventy-five percent attended Ivy League Colleges.
 The IB program seems very tough, but it seems well worth it.  And with the college credit you receive, it will put you up for the scholars program at your college, as well as let you receive credit for your high school classes.
 A university would have to be crazy to not want a kid who has completed and passed the IB program.  It increases chances of admittance, financial aid, and academic standing.  Colleges want to see that you are challenging yourself, and with the IB program, you are showing them that you are mature, intelligent and prepared for college.