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IB FAQ

FAQ

1. What is IB?

The International Baccalaureate Organization (IB) Program at Seminole High School is a rigorous, college-preparatory program focused on developing inquiring, knowledgeable, and caring students who are prepared to succeed in a global society.

2. Is IB only for gifted students?

No. IB is designed for motivated students who are willing to work hard. The program also emphasizes balance through CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) and student organizations like Beta Chi, which provide social opportunities.

3. How will SHS support my child?

Students receive strong academic and personal support from teachers, counselors, and the IB Coordinator. Tutoring is available before and after school, along with an IB Lab for additional study time. Social support is also encouraged through IB student activities.

4. How can I support my child?

Encourage your child to take responsibility, ask for help, attend tutoring, and collaborate with peers. IB focuses on applying knowledge and critical thinking, which can be challenging at first but builds valuable lifelong skills.

5. What are the benefits of IB?

IB students are well-prepared for college, often perform better in their first year, and are more likely to complete their degrees on time. The program develops strong writing, research, and critical thinking skills while preparing students to handle real-world challenges.

6. What is the difference between AP and IB?

AP allows students to choose individual courses, while IB is a structured program with a full curriculum. IB assessments combine multiple components (exams, writing, oral work), offering a more comprehensive evaluation. Seminole’s IB program also incorporates some AP courses within its curriculum.

7. What does the IB Diploma entail?

Students can earn both a Florida High School Diploma and an IB Diploma. The IB Diploma requires completing all program components and earning qualifying scores on exams taken in 11th and 12th grade.

8. What is the difference between Pre-DP and DP?

Pre-DP (9th–10th grade) consists of honors-level courses designed for IB students. DP (11th–12th grade) includes official IB courses required for the diploma.

9. What courses will my child take in 9th grade?

Students typically take seven classes, including:

  • Pre-DP English
  • Pre-DP Spanish or French
  • Pre-DP World History or AP Human Geography
  • Pre-DP Biology 1, or Pre-DP Chemistry 1 if Biology has already been completed
  • Math: Algebra 1 Honors, Geometry Honors, or Algebra 2 Honors
    (Students must complete Algebra 2 Honors before starting 11th grade.)
  • Up to two electives

We strongly encourage students to choose electives they enjoy—such as music, art, or culinary—to help balance the rigor of IB while exploring new interests.

Please note: 9th grade students may take a maximum of two classes on the main campus, and only if those courses are scheduled during first or fifth period.

10. What IB classes will my child take?

IB students take six courses: three Higher Level (HL) and three Standard Level (SL), across six subject groups:

  • Group 1: English
  • Group 2: World Languages
  • Group 3: Individuals & Societies
  • Group 4: Experimental Sciences
  • Group 5: Mathematics
  • Group 6: Fine Arts or Electives

 

4-year curriculum for IB

Click image to see a list of how the four-curriculum is laid out.

 

At Seminole, three courses are predetermined:

  • English HL
  • Spanish 5 SL or French 5 SL
  • History HL

Students then choose one additional HL and two SL courses from the remaining groups. (See the full 4-year curriculum guide for details.)

11. How do I apply to the IB program?

To apply, visit the Seminole County Public Schools website and complete the magnet application.

SCPS offers two IB programs:

  • Seminole High School
  • Winter Springs High School

Eligibility is based on your zoned high school:

  • Lake Brantley, Lake Mary, Lyman, and Seminole → apply to Seminole
  • Hagerty, Lake Howell, Oviedo, and Winter Springs → apply to Winter Springs

12. What if IB is too challenging for my child?

Students may withdraw from IB at the end of any school year. Before doing so, we encourage families to explore support options like tutoring and study groups.

If a student withdraws:

  • An exit meeting is held with the student and parent(s)
  • A new schedule is created
  • Out-of-zone students return to their zoned high school

13. What is the 9th Grade Center like?

To schedule a tour of the 9th Grade Center, please contact the 9th Grade Center at 407-320-8251.

14. What are the requirements for the IB Diploma?

To earn the IB Diploma, students must:

  • Complete 3 HL and 3 SL courses
  • Meet all core requirements (including Extended Essay and Theory of Knowledge)
  • Earn at least 24 total points
  • Meet minimum scoring requirements across HL and SL courses
  • Avoid academic misconduct

Students may also choose a 4 HL / 2 SL path, which has adjusted scoring requirements and is typically more demanding.

15. Can a current 9th grader apply?

Yes. Current 9th grade students can still apply by contacting SAPA (407-320-0559) and submitting a transcript. Admission decisions will be based on coursework from 8th and 9th grade.