Applying to US Universities as an IB Student

US college admissions can seem daunting. With so many options to choose from and application processes varying from college to college, it can be challenging to know where to begin. Moreover, it takes a lot of time, dedication, and thought to curate applications which best reflect your strengths - which is especially tricky when you are already managing the intense academic demands of the IBDP.34

However, by following these helpful tips and strategies, you can maximise your chances of success and make the most of your college application journey. If you want information straight from the horse’s mouth, check out this guide from the International Baccalaureate for IB students applying to US universities. In this article, we’ve summarised the key facts from the guide, and filled it out with much more.

Is IB accepted in US universities?

The IB is widely respected for its rigorous and comprehensive curriculum. Admissions officers also appreciate the fact that the IB is an internationally recognized qualification, which means that it provides a level of consistency and comparability across different educational systems. So, the answer is: yes, absolutely, US universities accept the IB, whether you are a domestic or an international student.

The IB states that in 2023, US institutions received around 15,000 transcripts from IB students, reflecting an increase in the number of students being admitted to and choosing American universities. The majority of the most popular institutions which IB students attend are in the top 100 universities in the world.

A senior IB tutor in New York recommends:

"Don't forget to balance your studies and personal interests. Colleges look for students who do well in school but also have hobbies and activities they enjoy. Show them you're more than just your grades."

Source: IB guide for students applying to US institutions

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What impact will doing the IB have on my university experience?

Online tutors conclude that many US higher education institutions offer benefits to IB students. Benefits are determined by each institution individually, but might include credit for certain IB scores, scholarships or tuition assistance. Some universities allow IB students to enter their institution as second-year students, meaning the undergraduate education will be three years instead of four. In 2023, more US universities have started to offer up to a full year’s worth of college credit for IB Diploma holders who score 30 points or higher. Additionally, some universities have expanded scholarships specifically for IB students.

An expert IB Maths tutor said:

"Remember, your IB journey is more than just grades. Stay true to what excites you and use that passion to guide your college applications. It's about showing who you are, not just what you've achieved."

What is a good IB score for US universities?

Many US institutions do not have a set minimum score requirement for IB students. Instead, they consider a combination of factors such as course selection, performance, extended essay, creativity, activity, service activities, interviews or personal statements, letters of recommendation, and often performance on other standardised exams. Additionally, some institutions evaluate performance in individual IB courses rather than the overall point total.

It is important to note that admission selectivity can vary greatly between institutions, with some expecting exemplary performance from IB applicants while others accept a wider range of scores. Admissions requirements are often not clearly outlined in IB terms on university websites and may differ between institutions. It may be the case, moreover, that for some majors and courses you will need specific grades in specific subjects, so it is helpful to look into university requirements as early as possible. For example, if you are applying to pre-med, then even though universities may not specify the subjects that they want, IB Biology tutors recommend that you should study sciences at Higher Level to prepare yourself best for the undergraduate course. It is recommended to speak with a university representative directly to gain a better understanding of the expected level of performance for admission.

As of 2024, universities like Stanford and MIT are placing more emphasis on the combination of IB coursework with students’ involvement in STEM-related extracurriculars and projects. For instance, MIT has been particularly focused on how students integrate their IB Extended Essay into STEM fields.

IB tutors in Dallas, as well as the Houston IB tutors, emphasise the importance of staying organised and managing your time effectively to succeed in both your IB studies and the college application process.

This makes the US system quite different to the UK, where each university will usually outline the minimum score requirement and the typical conditional offers given to prospective students.

However, based on a survey of hundreds of IB students, here are IB scores generally required for some of the top universities in the US.

Princeton University

The IB score range for Princeton University is 39-43. A score within this range can strengthen your application, but remember, Princeton also values qualities like leadership, community involvement, and personal character.

Harvard University

Harvard University's IB score range is 39-44. While a high score can enhance your application, Harvard also looks for students who can contribute to their diverse community in unique ways.

Columbia University

The IB score range for Columbia University is 38-43. Columbia values intellectual curiosity and initiative, so a strong IB score combined with evidence of these traits can make for a compelling application.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

For MIT, the IB score range is 40-45. MIT is known for its rigorous academic environment, so a high IB score can demonstrate your readiness to take on their challenging programs.

Yale University

Yale University's IB score range is 39-44. Yale seeks students who can bring a diverse range of perspectives, experiences, and contributions to the university's community.

Stanford University

The IB score range for Stanford University is 40-45. Stanford values academic excellence, intellectual vitality, and personal context, so a strong IB score can be a positive factor in your application.

University of Chicago

The IB score range for the University of Chicago is 37-42. Expert Chicago IB tutors note that the University of Chicago appreciates students who love learning and have demonstrated that in their IB scores and beyond.

Duke University

Duke University's IB score range is 37-42. Duke seeks students who are eager to engage in their rigorous and interdisciplinary academic environment.

California Institute of Technology (Caltech)

The IB score range for Caltech is 38-43. Caltech looks for students who have demonstrated exceptional academic ability that can be reflected in a strong IB score.

Johns Hopkins University

The IB score range for Johns Hopkins University is 37-42. Johns Hopkins values students who are academically prepared to succeed in their rigorous environment.

University of Pennsylvania

The IB score range for the University of Pennsylvania is 38-43. UPenn seeks students who have demonstrated academic excellence and intellectual curiosity.

Northwestern University

The IB score range for Northwestern University is 36-41. Northwestern values students who have demonstrated a high level of academic achievement.

Dartmouth College

The IB score range for Dartmouth College is 37-42. Dartmouth looks for students who are academically prepared and have demonstrated a commitment to learning.

Brown University

The IB score range for Brown University is 38-43. Brown values academic excellence, creativity, and intellectual curiosity, which can be reflected in a strong IB score.

Cornell University

The IB score range for Cornell University is 36-41. Cornell seeks students who have demonstrated a high level of academic achievement.

University of Notre Dame

The IB score range for the University of Notre Dame is 36-41. Notre Dame values academic excellence, leadership, and community service.

Rice University

The IB score range for Rice University is 36-41. Rice looks for students who have demonstrated a high level of academic achievement.

Vanderbilt University

The IB score range for Vanderbilt University is 36-41. Vanderbilt seeks students who have demonstrated academic excellence and intellectual curiosity.

Washington University in St. Louis

The IB score range for Washington University in St. Louis is 37-42. IB tutors in Washington also note that WashU values students who have demonstrated a high level of academic achievement.

University of California, Berkeley

The IB score range for UC Berkeley is 36-41. UC Berkeley looks for students who have demonstrated a high level of academic achievement and intellectual curiosity.

Have a look at our comprehensive set of IB resources that include IB Study Notes, IB Past Papers and IB Practice Questions, developed by expert IB teachers and examiners!

Will doing the IB get me into an Ivy League?

According to a survey conducted by the International Insight Research Group in partnership with the International Baccalaureate Organisation (IBO), over 4,000 students were surveyed and the results showed that IB students had an acceptance rate into Ivy League universities that was up to 18% higher than the overall acceptance rate for the total population. The gap was even more notable for highly-ranked universities outside of the Ivy League, where the acceptance rate was on average 22% higher for IB students.

This suggests that doing the IB will support your chances of getting into a top US university. Admissions counsellors recognise it as an academically rigorous course, which will set you up to flourish in your academics at university. You will need a high IB score to be a strong candidate to be admitted to Ivy League universities: typically, a score in the 40s will be enough to make you a competitive candidates. Of course, Ivy Leagues are equally looking for people who excel outside the classroom, so the extra-curriculars you have been completing and reflecting on as part of CAS will also strengthen your application.

Does Harvard prefer IB or A-Levels?

Marilyn McGrath Lewis, Director of Admissions at Harvard University, said: “IB is well known to us for excellent preparation. Success in an IB programme correlates well with success at Harvard. We are always pleased to see the credentials of the IB Diploma Programme on the transcript. GPA is not nearly as important a factor in university admission as the IB Diploma. If a student has to choose, choose the Diploma over protecting the GPA.” This indicates how much Harvard University values an IB education.

As of 2024, Harvard has continued to express a preference for students with a holistic education, with the IB program being highlighted in admissions materials as offering the "well-rounded, globally aware" candidates that the university seeks.

While universities do not explicitly state whether they prefer an IB or A-Level education more, both the A-Level tutors and IB tutors suggest that it is likely that the IB is a better preparation for the undergraduate courses of top US universities. This is because the breadth of subjects studied at the IB facilitates a wider range of course choices at university, in comparison to the 3 subjects studied in A-Levels.

How can I stand out in my application?

The good news is that everything you are already doing to be a successful IB student is exactly what US universities are looking for!

1. Academics

You are, of course, on an intellectually rigorous programme. With over 80% of undergraduate degrees now not requiring standardised testing for admissions, you stand in good stead with excellent evidence of your academic capabilities, demonstrated in your IB subjects and predicted grades.

2. The Evolution of Test-Optional Policies

As of 2024, many US colleges continue to adopt and expand their test-optional policies. However, for IB students, this does not diminish the importance of strong academic performance in IB subjects. In fact, in the absence of standardized test scores, IB results play a more crucial role in the holistic evaluation process. Admissions officers are paying closer attention to how students' IB courses align with their intended major, particularly in competitive fields such as engineering, business, and health sciences.

3. Extracurriculars

Extracurriculars are fundamental to success in US college applications. Colleges are interested in students who are involved in extracurricular activities such as sports, clubs, volunteer work, or internships. Find activities that align with your interests and passions, and commit to them long-term. These experiences will not only make your college application stand out but also help you develop valuable skills and experiences. The great news here, again, is that you will already be engaged in lots of activities because of CAS!

4. Personality

US colleges also look for an engaging and unique personality. This can really shine through in your essays, as they provide an opportunity for you to showcase your personality, interests, and strengths beyond your grades and test scores. Spend time brainstorming, writing, and revising your essays to ensure they're authentic, compelling, and well-written. Ask for feedback from your teachers, parents, friends, or a US IB tutor to make sure your essays are the best they can be. If you have interviews, then this can also be an excellent opportunity to showcase your personality and demonstrate your interest in the college. Prepare ahead of time by researching the college, practicing common interview questions, and dressing professionally. Some colleges have even more creative ways for you to show your personality - such as Brown’s Video Introduction.

5. College choice

College choice is very important to your chances of success. Think critically about which colleges best align with your interests and personality, and then express this in your application. Colleges want to know why you value their campus and opportunities in particular, and this ultimately will help you end up in a place that is best suited to you.

How can I manage my time when balancing the IB and college applications?

Time management is very crucial in order to plan well for your iBs and college applications. An experienced IB English tutor recommends the following steps to follow which are very important for all students:

1. Start early!

Try starting to think about college applications as early as possible. It’s likely that you will have fewer demands from the IB in your first year (junior year of high school), so try to use that time to complete research, pick which colleges you want to apply for, and start understanding what essays and information you will need to submit to each. Hopefully, you’ve already been thinking about applying to college for the previous few years too, so you’ve built up a bank of extracurriculars and personal interests which will set you in good stead.

2. Organisation!

Stay as organised as possible. It can be overwhelming to keep track of important deadlines, requirements, and application materials, so it's important to stay organised. Consider creating a spreadsheet or using an organisation app to keep track of your applications and progress.

3. Research!

Dedicate time to research. There are thousands of colleges and universities, which all offer different opportunities. Attend college fairs, explore college websites, and talk to college representatives to gather as much information as possible. While academic performance is a crucial factor in college admissions, you should also consider the location of the college, its size, the culture on campus, extracurricular activities, and potential career opportunities. Try thinking about what matters most to you and prioritise those factors when creating your college list.

4. Use help!

Use all the resources at your disposal. One of the most helpful sources of information may be your school counsellor or US college admissions tutor. They can provide guidance on the application process, suggest potential colleges, and help you stay on track with deadlines. Make sure to schedule regular meetings with your counsellor throughout the application process.