An education designed for the future
What is the IB?
The International Baccalaureate (IB) is more than a curriculum; it’s a globally recognized philosophy of education. Founded in 1968, it was built on a mission to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect.
Today, the IB is a testament to that vision, offered in over 160 countries to nearly 2 million students. It’s an inquiry-based approach that aims to develop students who are not just knowledgeable, but also caring and motivated global citizens. Its reputation for academic rigour and holistic development means that IB graduates are highly sought after by the world’s leading universities, consistently demonstrating higher rates of acceptance and success in higher education.
A truly global standard
*University acceptance rates and figures are based on global data provided by the IBO.
Why the IB at ASAD is different
Our complete IB continuum provides a distinct, research-backed advantage, equipping students with the skills and mindset needed to thrive in university and beyond.
Future-Ready Skills
We explicitly teach the ‘Approaches to Learning’ (ATL) skills—critical thinking, research, communication, social, and self-management. These are the essential competencies that prepare students for success in a rapidly changing world.
A Deeper Way of Thinking
The Diploma Programme’s Core is unique. Through the Theory of Knowledge (TOK), the Extended Essay (EE), and CAS, students don’t just learn subjects—they learn to synthesize knowledge, conduct independent research, and engage with their community.
Unmatched University Preparation
The IB curriculum’s rigour and emphasis on independent inquiry mean our graduates enter higher education with superior academic maturity. Universities worldwide recognize IB students for their preparedness and critical thinking abilities.
Holistic Personal Growth
Beyond academics, the IB Learner Profile is at the heart of our school’s culture. We are committed to developing students who are principled, open-minded, caring, and balanced, nurturing well-rounded global citizens.
Fosters a Global Mindset
Students are encouraged to think beyond their immediate environment, exploring global issues and appreciating diverse perspectives. This intercultural understanding is essential for becoming a responsible citizen in an interconnected world.
Develops Student Agency
From the PYP Exhibition to the MYP Personal Project, the IB framework empowers students to take ownership of their learning, follow their passions, and become independent, self-directed learners.
A seamless journey of growth
Primary Years Programme
The PYP transforms young children into inquisitive, lifelong learners. It frames learning around six transdisciplinary themes of global significance, encouraging students to explore concepts and issues across subject boundaries, starting with their own natural curiosity.
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The PYP focuses on developing the whole child as an inquirer, both in the classroom and the world outside. It emphasizes student agency, giving children a voice and choice in their own education. Learning is inquiry-based, meaning students are encouraged to ask questions, investigate answers, and reflect on their findings. The culmination of the PYP is the Exhibition, a significant collaborative project where students conduct an in-depth inquiry into real-life issues, presenting their research and proposed actions to the school community.
Middle Years Programme
The MYP provides a challenging framework that encourages students to make practical connections between their studies and the real world. It is a crucial bridge from the inquiry-based PYP to the academic rigour of the DP, designed specifically for the needs of early adolescents.
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The MYP is built around eight subject groups, ensuring a broad and balanced education. A key component is the explicit teaching of Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills, which help students manage their own learning and develop critical thinking. The programme features interdisciplinary units that break down barriers between subjects, and culminates in the Personal Project—a significant, self-directed piece of work that allows students to explore an area of personal interest and showcases the skills they have developed over the years.
Diploma Programme
The DP is a globally recognized, academically challenging programme that prepares students for success at university and beyond. Respected by leading universities worldwide, it is considered the gold standard in pre-university education for its rigour, breadth, and development of critical thinking.
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Students study six subjects from different groups at either Higher Level (HL) or Standard Level (SL), ensuring both breadth and depth of knowledge. The programme is defined by its unique Core components: the Extended Essay (EE), a 4,000-word independent research paper that prepares students for university-level writing; Theory of Knowledge (TOK), which explores the nature of knowledge itself; and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS), a range of experiences that fosters personal growth alongside academic pursuits.
Begin the journey
Discover how an IB education at the Australian School of Abu Dhabi can shape your child’s future. We invite you to learn more or get in touch with our admissions team.