'The proportion of IB qualifiers who achieved a first class honours degree was higher for IB diploma qualifiers, 24.4%, than A level qualifiers, 20.7%.' HESA report
Pre-U/IB Options Process
The options process takes a full six months to complete, as we believe it is important that every student and parent takes their time to make the correct choices. The choice of subjects will make a major difference between an enjoyable and successful time through the Diploma, and one that can be very challenging.
Options Presentation 2026
Key stages to support options and transition
Introductory University Guidance Sessions
During the first term, leading up the Options afternoon, our University Counsellor will conduct introductory sessions for students to understand some of the requirements regarding university entrance and the subjects they choose.
Options Afternoon
Options afternoon - will involve parent and student presentations, followed by a subject fair where all students can speak to individual teachers about the content and assessment methods of their subjects at IB level.
Initial Choices
After the Options Afternoon, all students complete a 'wish list' to communicate their first ideas regarding university and career aspirations, as well as initial subject choices. Please note this is simply an initial list as these may change as we go through the process.
IGCSE Mock Examinations
These happen in January and are a good indicator for us of whether a student has the academic ability for certain subjects and courses.
A reminder that a general guideline for a subject choice is a B(6) or above for Higher level courses and a C(4-5) or above for Standard level courses.
Interviews with University Counsellor and Pre-U Team
Each student after the Mock examinations meets for an interview with the University Counsellor and IB Diploma Coordinator to discuss their options, where we look at:
Data - Academic Transcripts, Mock Exam Results, CAT4, Students Options Presentation ...
Discussion points - Academic ability fits choices, University requirements fits choices, Future ambitions fit choices alongside discussion regarding Countries of application, Scholarships and so...
Options Decision
Discussions continue to happen after the meeting as and when necessary to finalise any concerns or changes that may need to be made.
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Initial Offer Letter
Before Year 11 students start their study leave, after all discussions are completed and a final pathway and set of options has been agreed, an initial offer letter will be sent to students and parents. This offer will be reviewed and confirmed at the start of Year 12, once final GCSE results are released.
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Timeline
The timeline for the 2026 IB options process is as follows:
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Recommended Entry Requirements
As the IB is a rigourous programme of study, we do need to apply certain entry requirements for the various progammes of study. Whilst we make every attempt to ensure our IB programmes are accessible for all, we do need these entry requirements to be realistic in terms of student success.​
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In addition, the content of certain subjects, and the increased knowledge level required from GCSE means there are some subjects which will have additional entry requirements.
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The entry requirements for both the full IB Diploma and the IB Courses pathways, along with subject specific entry requirements are outlined below:
Term One of Year 12
We aim to fully support students at the beginning of their first week and term of Pre-U especially in relation to final IGCSE results are received. The key support for transition includes
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Support with reviewing IGCSE final exam results
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Reviewing IB pathway and options including HL/SL
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Introduction to IB and CAS week
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Half a term to keep level of subject open before final choice made
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On-going counselling and guidance as necessary
