Introduction
Not every school offering “international education” is truly an IB World School. To teach the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (MYP), a school must go through a detailed and rigorous authorization process by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO).
This process ensures that every IB World School meets the same global standards of quality, philosophy, and learning practice. But how does a school earn that prestigious title? This guide explains the IB accreditation process, from initial interest to full authorization, and what makes a school officially qualified to deliver the MYP.
What Is an IB World School?
An IB World School is a school that has been authorized by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) to deliver one or more of the four IB programmes:
- Primary Years Programme (PYP)
- Middle Years Programme (MYP)
- Diploma Programme (DP)
- Career-related Programme (CP)
These schools share a common commitment to the IB mission — developing inquiring, knowledgeable, and caring young people who help create a better and more peaceful world through education.
As of today, there are over 5,700 IB World Schools in more than 140 countries, offering at least one IB programme.
The IB Authorization Journey: Step by Step
The process of becoming an IB World School typically takes 2–3 years, moving through four main stages.
1. Expression of Interest
A school begins by submitting an Expression of Interest form to the IB. This step communicates the school’s intention to pursue authorization and provides an overview of its vision, governance, and readiness.
At this stage, the IB provides initial guidance on what is required to align with the IB philosophy and structure.
2. Candidate School Phase
Once approved, the school enters the Candidate School phase. This is a critical developmental stage lasting one to two years.
During this phase, the school must:
- Align its curriculum framework with MYP requirements
- Appoint an MYP Coordinator
- Ensure teachers receive IB professional development
- Develop policies in key areas such as assessment, inclusion, and academic honesty
- Create a long-term strategic plan for IB implementation
Candidate Schools also work closely with an IB consultant, who guides them through the standards and practices required for authorization.
3. Request for Authorization
When the school believes it meets the IB’s standards, it submits a Request for Authorization. This formal application includes:
- Curriculum documents and unit plans
- Teacher training records
- Evidence of assessment strategies
- School policies and mission statement alignment
- Proof of student engagement in Service as Action and interdisciplinary learning
This stage demonstrates that the school is ready to deliver the MYP according to the IB framework.
4. Verification Visit
After reviewing the documentation, the IB sends a verification team to visit the school.
During this on-site visit, trained IB evaluators:
- Observe classes and meet teachers, administrators, and students
- Review unit plans and assessments
- Assess facilities, technology, and learning environments
- Evaluate alignment with the IB philosophy and Learner Profile
Following the visit, the team provides a report to the IB, recommending whether the school should be authorized.
If successful, the school officially becomes an IB World School authorized to offer the Middle Years Programme (MYP).
What the IB Looks For During Authorization
The IB’s evaluation is based on the document “Standards and Practices for IB World Schools.” Schools must show strong performance in several key areas:
- Philosophy: Shared commitment to the IB mission and international-mindedness
- Organization: Strong leadership, governance, and resource allocation
- Curriculum: Implementation of MYP concepts, global contexts, and assessment criteria
- Teaching and Learning: Inquiry-based approaches and student-centered pedagogy
- Assessment: Consistent use of the 1–7 grading scale and formative feedback
- Professional Development: Ongoing IB training for all staff
The IB also ensures that schools promote the Learner Profile, emphasizing values such as curiosity, empathy, and reflection.
Maintaining Authorization: Evaluation and Renewal
Authorization isn’t permanent. To remain an IB World School, institutions must undergo regular evaluations every five years.
During these evaluations, schools submit updated evidence showing they still meet IB standards. The IB may conduct another evaluation visit and recommend improvements if needed.
This continuous review ensures that every IB World School — whether in Singapore, Spain, or South Africa — delivers the same high-quality, globally consistent education.
Benefits of IB Authorization
Becoming an IB World School offers significant advantages:
- Global recognition and prestige among international education communities
- Access to IB training, resources, and assessment support
- Ability to collaborate with a network of IB educators worldwide
- Attraction for families seeking internationally transferable education
- Opportunity to prepare students for future IB programmes such as the DP or CP
Authorized schools become part of a global family dedicated to inquiry, diversity, and excellence in learning.
How Parents Can Verify IB Authorization
Parents can easily check if a school is officially authorized by visiting the IB’s website and using the Find an IB World School directory at ibo.org.
Each authorized school is listed by name, location, and programme offered. If a school claims to be “IB-based” but is not listed, it is not officially recognized by the IB Organization.
Conclusion
Becoming an IB World School is a rigorous but rewarding journey. Authorization ensures that every school teaching the Middle Years Programme (MYP) upholds the same global standards of academic integrity, innovation, and inclusivity.
For educators, it’s a mark of professional excellence. For parents, it’s assurance that their child is receiving an internationally benchmarked education. And for students, it’s the beginning of a transformative experience that builds the curiosity, empathy, and critical thinking skills needed to shape a better world.
