This programme follows international curricula and places a strong emphasis on both academic writing and personal development. All instruction (except for mother tongue education/Norwegian) is conducted in English, and students are expected to complement classroom learning with independent study. At the end of the two years, students sit written examinations in all subjects.
In addition to the subjects, IB students will learn:
- Critical thinking
- Improved communication skills
- Collaboration skills
- Self-management and time management
- Academic writing
Who is IB suitable for?
Bodin Upper Secondary School welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds who will benefit both personally and academically from the IB programme. IB focuses on holistic development as well as academic achievement.
IB is suitable for students who:
- Enjoy working independently and collaboratively
- Are socially engaged
- Have broad academic and social interests
- Are hardworking and enjoy academic challenges
- Appreciate good discussions and examining issues from multiple perspectives
- Care about others
- Plan to continue their studies, possibly abroad
Admission Requirements
You may be admitted to IB if you have:
- Completed and passed Vg1 academic studies or Vg2 vocational studies
- A grade of 4 or higher in English
- A grade of 3 or higher in Mathematics
You may also qualify if you have:
- Completed the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP)
- Completed IGCSE (United Kingdom) or an equivalent qualification
- Completed lower secondary school (Year 10) and accelerated Mathematics and English coursework
Students entering IB directly without completing Vg1 should be aware that if they leave the programme before completion, they must start again at Vg1. Parents/guardians and students must sign a declaration confirming they understand this condition.
Programme Structure
1. Six Subject Groups
Students choose one subject from each of the first five groups, plus one additional subject (either from Group 6 or another group):
- Studies in Language and Literature
- Language Acquisition
- Individuals and Societies
- Sciences
- Mathematics
- The Arts (or an additional subject from Groups 1–5)
2. Higher Level (HL) and Standard Level (SL)
- Three subjects are studied at Higher Level (HL) with greater depth and more instructional time.
- Three subjects are studied at Standard Level (SL).
3. The Core
All IB students must complete three mandatory components:
Extended Essay (EE)
An independent research paper of approximately 4,000 words related to one of the student's chosen subjects.
Theory of Knowledge (TOK)
A course exploring how we know what we know, including topics in the history and philosophy of science. It is assessed through an essay and presentation.
CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service)
Activities outside the classroom involving:
- Creative pursuits
- Physical activity
- Community service
Students document their CAS experiences in a portfolio over the two-year programme.
Subjects Offered at Bodin
Studies in Language and Literature (Language A)
- Norwegian
- English
- Mother tongue (self-study with supervision)
Students with strong language skills may choose both Norwegian and English or French as Language A subjects and earn a bilingual diploma.
Language Acquisition (Language B)
- Norwegian
- English
- French
- Norwegian ab initio (beginners)
Individuals and Societies
Sciences
- Design Technology
- Sports, Exercise and Health Science
- Chemistry (on demand)
- Physics (on demand)
Mathematics
- Applications and Interpretation
The Arts
- Visual Arts
- Or an additional subject from another group
Further Studies
A completed International Baccalaureate diploma provides general university entrance qualifications in Norway and internationally.
IB gives students a solid academic and linguistic foundation for university and college studies. The internationally recognised diploma also makes transitions to studies abroad easier.
For admission to Norwegian universities and colleges, IB grades are converted into Norwegian admission points, including science bonus points where applicable. Students specialising in science subjects may also qualify for advanced science entrance requirements.
Application Process
Applications are submitted through VIGO, and applicants must also send an application form directly to the school by email.