Our IB Diploma Programme (Grades 11–12) is where students step into their final academic chapter at Cologne International School — guided by the globally respected IB Diploma Programme (IB DP). In this phase, students refine their intellectual independence, prepare for university, and engage in a purpose-driven learning environment that balances academic excellence with global citizenship.
Cologne International School offers the full IB DP, a rigorous two-year curriculum recognized by universities worldwide. Students explore six subject areas, alongside three core components:
Theory of Knowledge (TOK): Helps students question the nature of knowledge and think critically across disciplines.
Extended Essay (EE): A 4,000-word independent research paper that strengthens academic writing and inquiry skills.
Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS): A portfolio of projects that helps students grow by fostering creativity, encouraging physical activity, and promoting service to others, ultimately developing well-rounded individuals ready to make a positive impact.
At Cologne International School, students benefit from individualized mentoring and a school culture that encourages curiosity and initiative — all essential to succeeding in the IB DP.
The IB Diploma learning environment is structured yet flexible — offering small class sizes (max. 20 students), modern facilities, and personal mentoring.
Students benefit from:
A collaborative culture where teachers know every learner
Digital tools and labs for research and exploration
A calm, inclusive atmosphere where wellbeing is prioritized
Whether pursuing sciences, languages, or the arts, each student receives the academic structure and personal encouragement needed to flourish during these pivotal years.
DP students receive dedicated support to prepare for university in Germany, Europe, the U.S., and beyond.
The school guides students in:
Choosing suitable higher education paths
Writing personal statements and applications
Meeting national and international admission requirements
Cologne International School’s IB curriculum opens doors to both German Abitur-equivalent recognition and global acceptance by top universities.
Our IB Diploma Programme curriculum follows the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP) — a two-year academic framework designed to prepare students for higher education and lifelong learning. It fosters deep subject knowledge, independent research skills, and cross-cultural awareness, all within a balanced structure.
Each student chooses one subject from five core groups and a sixth subject from either Group 6 or any other group:
Group 1: Language and Literature
Group 2: Language Acquisition (e.g., German, Spanish, English)
Group 3: Individuals and Societies (e.g., History, Economics)
Group 4: Sciences (e.g., Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Systems)
Group 5: Mathematics
Group 6: The Arts or an additional subject from another group
Subjects are taken at Standard Level (SL) or Higher Level (HL) depending on the student’s focus and university goals.
These are mandatory for all IB DP students and are central to the program’s philosophy:
Theory of Knowledge (TOK): A course that teaches students to question assumptions, evaluate sources, and connect ideas across disciplines.
Extended Essay (EE): A 4,000-word independent research project, supervised by a teacher and often aligned with a student’s university interests.
Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS): A portfolio of projects that engage students in sports, community service, and creative pursuits — helping build well-rounded graduates.
Student work is assessed both internally by CIS teachers and externally by IB examiners.
Final exams take place at the end of Grade 12.
A maximum of 45 points can be earned, and a diploma is awarded with a minimum of 24 points, provided all conditions are met.
Students receive detailed guidance on assessment timelines and expectations throughout Grades 11 and 12.
Our IB Diploma Programme provides comprehensive university guidance starting in Grade 11.
Students receive assistance with:
Course selection aligned with career interests
Crafting personal statements and résumés
Preparing for interviews and entrance exams
Navigating applications for German, European, and international universities
We also help explore non-university paths, including gap years, apprenticeships, and volunteer programs.
Small class sizes ensure students get personalized attention and feedback.
Dedicated mentors and subject teachers help students stay on track, manage workload, and refine study strategies.
Regular progress check-ins give families insight into academic development and well-being.
Many of our graduates go on to study at top universities in Germany, the UK, the Netherlands, and beyond — supported by the IB Diploma’s global recognition.
The IB Diploma curriculum transitions students from the IGCSE (Grade 10) to the rigorous IB Diploma Programme (DP) in Grades 11 and 12. Here’s how assessments are structured:
IGCSE → DP Transition:
The IGCSE program provides a strong academic foundation, equipping students with the skills needed to excel in the IB Diploma Programme.
Frequency of Exams:
University Preparedness:
The DP fosters advanced research, writing, and analytical abilities, ensuring students are fully prepared for the challenges of higher education.
Our focus is on fostering independence, critical thinking, and resilience to help students excel academically and personally.
In Grades 11 and 12, students are encouraged to deepen their interests and develop leadership skills through IB Diploma-specific clubs and activities:
These extracurriculars foster teamwork, creativity, and a well-rounded profile for university applications.
At Cologne International School, students graduate with the International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB DP) — a globally respected qualification recognized by top universities around the world. Alongside their coursework, students receive guidance on university research, applications, and career options.
Our staff support students with:
Choosing IB subjects aligned with their future goals
Writing strong university applications and personal statements
Preparing for interviews and entrance exams (if required)
Navigating application systems in Germany, the UK, the US, and beyond
We equip each student with the tools they need to take the next step with confidence.
Our active Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) creates opportunities to learn, volunteer, and shape the Cologne International School experience. Join monthly meetups, workshops, and social events where families and educators collaborate as one community.
We welcome prospective students to spend a morning with one of our IB Diploma classes. They’ll take part in lessons, meet classmates and teachers, and finish with a conversation with our IB Diploma team. It’s a great way to experience daily life at Cologne International School first-hand.
Our IB Diploma Programme offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP), one of the most respected qualifications worldwide. The IB encourages academic depth and breadth, critical thinking, and international-mindedness—equipping students for top universities and careers around the globe.
Yes. The IB Diploma is fully recognized by German universities (via the Kultusministerkonferenz guidelines) and by universities worldwide. Our school ensures that students meet the necessary subject and language combinations to satisfy German higher education requirements.
Students are supported by dedicated IB coordinators, subject teachers, and advisors who guide them academically and emotionally. We also offer career and university counseling to help with applications, decision-making, and life after graduation.
Absolutely. IB Diploma students continue to participate in clubs, sports, service projects, and creative opportunities. They also complete the CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) component of the IB, which encourages balanced development beyond academics.
Classes remain small to support personalized attention and strong teacher-student relationships. This ensures that each student receives guidance suited to their learning needs and post-secondary goals.
We guide motivated students through the IB Diploma Programme with academic challenge and personal support. If you’re considering Grades 11–12 for your child, we’re here to talk about how Cologne International School can prepare them for university and beyond.
| Time | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 08:15 - 09:45 | Targeted Learning | Spanish / French / EAL | Math | The Arts | Humanities |
| 09:45 - 10:15 | Snack & Break | ||||
| 10:15 - 11:15 | Humanities | The Arts | English | English | Personal Growth |
| 11:15 - 12:15 | Math | English | Science | Science | German / GAL |
| 12:15 - 13:15 | Science | ||||
| 13:15 - 13:45 | Lunch & Break | ||||
| 13:45 - 14:15 | Spanish / French / EAL | Homeroom | German / GAL | Sport | Math |
| 14:15 - 15:15 | German / GAL | Clubs | Clubs | Clubs | Clubs |
| 15:15 - 16:45 | Clubs | Cubs | Clubs | Clubs | Clubs |
| Time | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 - 08:00 | Early Supervision | Early Supervision | Early Supervision | Early Supervision | Early Supervision |
| 08:00 - 09:30 | Unit of Inquiry | Unit of Inquiry | Unit of Inquiry | Unit of Inquiry | Unit of Inquiry |
| 09:30 - 10:00 | Snack & Recess | Snack & Recess | Snack & Recess | Snack & Recess | Snack & Recess |
| 10:00 - 10:30 | Instrumental | Kung Fu | Instrumental | Tai Chi | Instrumental |
| 10:30 - 12:00 | Unit | Unit | Unit | Unit | Tai Chi + Unit |
| 12:00 - 13:30 | Lunch & Recess | Lunch & Recess | Lunch & Recess | Lunch & Recess | Lunch & Recess |
| 13:30 - 14:30 | Unit Math, German, English, Social Studies |
Swimming | Library | Music | Unit |
| 14:30 - 15:30 | Spanish | Clubs | Art | Unit | Clubs |
| 15:30 - 16:30 | Spanish | Spanish | Spanish | ||
| 16:30 - 18:00 | Late Clubs | Late Clubs | Late Clubs | Late Clubs |
