Grades 11 to 12

The IB Diploma Programme (DP) at CIS is a rigorous, internationally recognised two-year pre-university programme for students aged 16–19. Respected by leading universities worldwide, the DP challenges students academically while supporting their personal development.

The DP at CIS

Students study six subjects across different disciplines, choosing a combination of Higher Level (HL) and Standard Level (SL) courses:

• A minimum of three HL subjects (240 instructional hours each)
• Remaining subjects at SL (150 instructional hours each)

This structure allows students to specialise in areas of interest while maintaining a broad and balanced education.

The DP core: Learning beyond the classroom

Central to the IB Diploma Programme is the DP Core, which encourages students to apply their knowledge in meaningful and reflective ways.

Theory of Knowledge (TOK)

TOK invites students to explore the nature of knowledge and how we know what we claim to know. At CIS, students complete:

• A TOK Exhibition, connecting TOK concepts to real-world contexts
• A TOK Essay, which develops critical thinking and academic writing skills

Extended Essay (EE)

The Extended Essay is a 4,000-word independent research paper that allows students to investigate a topic of personal interest. With guidance from experienced supervisors, students build advanced research, time-management, and analytical skills essential for university success.

Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)

CAS encourages students to grow beyond academics through sustained engagement in:

• Creativity – artistic and innovative pursuits
• Activity – physical wellbeing and healthy lifestyles
• Service – meaningful community involvement

At CIS, students often participate in ongoing CAS projects that reflect our values and local and global connections, culminating in a CAS Project that demonstrates collaboration, commitment, and impact.