The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) at MEF International School, Istanbul
The IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) is an exciting and challenging two-year academic program designed for students aged 16 to 19 who are looking for a well-rounded, internationally recognized education. It prepares students for university and beyond by developing critical thinking, research, and communication skills.
At MEF International School, Istanbul, we have proudly offered the IBDP since 1998, consistently ranking as one of Turkey’s top-performing IB World Schools.
What Will Students Learn?
IBDP students take six subjects, choosing one from each of the following groups:
| Group | Subjects Offered at MEF International School, Istanbul |
| Group 1: Studies in Language and Literature | English A: Language and Literature (SL & HL)
Language A: Self-Taught Literature (SL) |
| Group 2: Language Acquisition | English B (SL & HL)
French ab initio (SL) French B (SL & HL) Spanish ab initio (SL) Spanish B (SL & HL) |
| Group 3: İndividuals and Societies | Economics (SL & HL)
Global Politics (SL & HL) History (SL & HL) |
| Group 4: Sciences | Environmental Systems and Societies (SL & HL)
Biology (SL & HL) Physics (SL & HL) Chemistry (SL & HL) |
| Group 5: Mathematics | Applications and Interpretations (SL)
Analysis and Approaches (SL & HL) |
| Group 6: The Arts /Specializations | Visual Arts (SL & HL)
Chemistry History |
MEF International School Historical Results
Below are the results from the previous thirteen years of MEF IS IB Diploma Programme candidates:
| Year | MEFIS Highest Score | MEFIS Average | Global Average |
| 2024 | 44 | 32 | 30.32 |
| 2023 | 40 | 32 | 30.24 |
| 2022 | 44 | 34 | 31.98 |
| 2021 | 43 | 37 | 32.98 |
| 2020 | 42 | 33 | 31.34 |
| 2019 | 38 | 32 | 29.65 |
| 2018 | 40 | 32 | 29.76 |
| 2017 | 38 | 33 | 29.87 |
| 2016 | 43 | 39 | 29.95 |
| 2015 | 43 | 34 | ~30 |
| 2014 | 45 | 32 | ~30 |
| 2013 | 36 | 28 | ~30 |
| 2012 | 38 | 29 | ~30 |
To ensure both depth and breadth in their learning, students study three subjects at Higher Level (HL) and three at Standard Level (SL):
- Higher Level (HL): 240 hours of instruction over two years for in-depth study.
- Standard Level (SL): 150 hours of instruction for a broader foundation.
The Core Components of the IBDP
Beyond coursework, students engage in three core elements that develop essential life skills:
Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)
CAS encourages students to step beyond academics, balancing their studies with personal growth, teamwork, and community involvement. Through creative projects, physical activities, and service work, students gain valuable experiences that build leadership, empathy, and social responsibility. CAS activities include:
- Creativity: Artistic pursuits, designing and leading projects.
- Activity: Sports, outdoor expeditions, and fitness challenges.
- Service: Community engagement, including working with disadvantaged groups, environmental initiatives, and charity work.
CAS runs throughout the two years of the IBDP, helping students develop independence, collaboration skills, and a deeper awareness of their role in society.
Extended Essay (EE)
The Extended Essay is an independent, university-style research project where students explore a topic of personal interest, culminating in a 4,000-word paper. With guidance from a supervisor, students develop critical research, writing, and analytical skills that prepare them for university-level coursework. The EE starts in IB1 and concludes in IB2, allowing students to dive deep into their chosen field of study.
Theory of Knowledge (TOK)
TOK is a thought-provoking course that challenges students to question how knowledge is constructed and understood across different disciplines. It helps students:
- Think critically and reflect on biases in knowledge.
- Make connections between subjects and real-world issues.
- Analyze different perspectives on global and personal knowledge issues.
By IB2, students complete a presentation and a 1,200–1,600-word essay, where they explore complex questions about truth, perspective, and reasoning.
Why Choose the IB Diploma Programme?
The IBDP is one of the most respected and recognized pre-university programs worldwide. It is known for its academic rigor, emphasis on inquiry-based learning, and focus on developing well-rounded students.
- Global Recognition & University Admissions
Universities around the world—including top institutions in the U.S., UK, Canada, Europe, and beyond—highly regard IB graduates for their strong academic foundation, research abilities, and independent learning skills. Many universities offer IB students advanced standing, college credits, or scholarships based on their IB scores. - Respected by Employers
Employers value IBDP graduates because they develop time management, problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills—essential abilities in today’s competitive job market. IB students also gain a global perspective, cultural awareness, and adaptability, which are highly desirable traits in international careers. - Balanced and Flexible Learning
The IBDP strikes a balance between depth and breadth, allowing students to explore subjects they love while keeping their future study and career options open. The program is structured to support personal growth, fostering resilience, self-motivation, and the ability to thrive in dynamic environments.
At MEF International School, Istanbul, we offer a wide range of IBDP courses—check our Course Descriptions for details. We are committed to helping every student succeed academically while also growing as independent, curious, and well-prepared individuals ready to take on university and life beyond.
For more information about the IB Diploma Programme worldwide, visit the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) official website: www.ibo.org
