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    About IB: 

    International Baccalaureate is renowned worldwide for its rigorous academic standards, emphasis on holistic education, and promotion of intercultural understanding and respect. IB Programs challenge students to excel not only in their studies, but also in their personal growth. The IB aspires to help schools develop well-rounded students who respond to challenges with optimism and an open mind, are confident in their own identities, make ethical decisions, and are prepared to apply what they learn in real-world, complex, and unpredictable situations. Students can choose to participate in our full Diploma Program, our Career-Related Program, or take any IB courses independent of one of our programs. All of our students will take at least one IB course while at Riverside (IB Language and Literature in their 11th grade year).

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What are HL and SL?

    Each IB course will be classified as either SL or HL and represents the breadth and depth of content that is covered in courses and IB exams. SL stands for Standard Level courses which are 1 or 2 years in length. HL stands for Higher Level courses which are always two years in length. 

    What are IAs? Why do they matter?

    Internal assessments (IAs) are major projects that are completed in every IB class that count towards your IB exam score. The format of these assessments vary from class to class. For example, the IA for Language and Literature is an oral presentation while the IA for Biology is a lab that is student designed and completed. IA scores count for between 15 and 30% of your overall IB exam score. For some classes, your IA will also count for a grade in the class. 

    What are IB Exams?

    Each May, External IB exams are proctored for each IB course. They are scored on a scale of 1-7. If you are working towards your IB diploma, you must take six exams during your 11th and 12th grade year. If you are working towards you IB certificate in the Career Related Program, you must take two exams during your 11th and 12th grade year. 

    Can I reschedule when I take my IB exams?

    No. IB exams are set each year by IB. The exam date cannot be changed. If you miss them, you will have to wait a year for the next exam session and pay for the exams again. 

    How much do IB exams cost?

    IB exams cost approximately $125 each. The state of Oregon has programs to bring that cost down to $99 each for all students. Fees will be waived for families qualified for free or reduced meals.

    How much college credit can I get for IB exams?

    Most colleges offer credit for exam scores of 5+. Many colleges, including University of Oregon and Oregon State, give credit for scores of 4+. The amount of credit received is also dependent on if the course was an SL or HL course. The best way to know for sure if to look up individual policies for the Universities you may be interested in. (Google the name of the college + “IB Credit”)

    Can I take an IB exam without taking the IB class for that subject?

    No. IB Policy does not allow this. 

    How many IB exams can I take junior year?

    If you are working towards an IB diploma, you can take two SL exams at most. If you are NOT working towards an IB diploma, you can take as many SL or HL exams as you want.