IB Programme (K-12)

York Academy International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme Overview (K–12)

York Academy is an authorized International Baccalaureate (IB) World School and the only school in York County offering the full IB continuum:

  • Primary Years Programme (PYP) – Grades K–6
  • Middle Years Programme (MYP) – Grades 7–10
  • Diploma Programme (DP) – Grades 11–12

The IB framework is globally recognized for its academic rigor, focus on critical thinking, and preparation for college and career success.

Primary Years Programme (PYP): Grades K–6

The PYP builds the foundation for lifelong learning by focusing on the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally.

Key Features:

  • Inquiry-based, student-centered learning
  • Emphasis on global awareness and personal responsibility
  • Development of independence and curiosity
  • Instruction organized around six transdisciplinary themes, including:
    • Who we are
    • How the world works
    • Sharing the planet

Capstone Experience:

  • PYP Exhibition (Grade 6): A collaborative research project demonstrating student learning and growth

Middle Years Programme (MYP): Grades 7–10

The MYP bridges foundational learning with advanced academic preparation and emphasizes real-world application.

Key Features:

  • Focus on intellectual challenge and critical thinking
  • Encourages students to connect classroom learning to real-world issues
  • Promotes global awareness, empathy, and purposeful action
  • Builds skills in:
    • Communication
    • Research
    • Collaboration
    • Problem-solving

Outcome:

  • MYP Personal Project (Grade 10): A collaborative research project demonstrating student learning and growth. Students leave Grade 10 prepared for the rigor of the Diploma Programme and future academic pathways.

Diploma Programme (DP): Grades 11–12

The DP is a rigorous, college-preparatory program designed to develop well-rounded, globally minded students.

Key Features:

  • Two-year academic program with final external assessments
  • Focus on:
    • Critical thinking
    • Research and writing
    • Time management
    • Global awareness

Core Requirements:

  • MYP Personal Project (Grade 10)
  • Theory of Knowledge (TOK) Exhibition & Essay
  • Extended Essay (independent research paper)
  • Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)
  • DP Art Exhibition or Music & Theater Showcase

IB Course Pathways at York Academy (Grades 11–12)

York Academy offers flexible pathways to meet student goals:

Full Diploma Programme (Full DP)

  • Students take courses across six subject groups
  • Complete all IB core requirements
  • Earn the full IB Diploma

Partial Diploma Programme (Course Candidate)

  • Students take selected IB courses
  • May choose a mix of IB and non-IB classes
  • Earn IB course certificates

Non-Testing Pathway

  • Students take IB courses without sitting for official IB exams
  • Benefit from IB rigor without exam pressure

Higher Level (HL) and Standard Level (SL) Courses

  • Higher Level (HL): More in-depth, college-level rigor
  • Standard Level (SL): Broad academic foundation

York Academy Policy:

  • Students may take a maximum of 4 HL courses per year, and 6 SL courses per year

Students work with their counselor and the DP Coordinator to select HL/SL courses aligned with:

  • College and career goals
  • Academic strengths
  • Intended major in college

College Credit & Transferability of IB Courses

IB courses are widely recognized by colleges and universities worldwide.

Benefits include:

  • College credit for HL (and some SL) courses
  • Advanced placement or course exemptions
  • Priority consideration for scholarships
  • Stronger college applications due to academic rigor

At many institutions, students who score:

  • 4–7 on IB exams may earn college credit
  • Higher scores often result in more credit or advanced placement

York Academy students frequently benefit from:

  • Advanced standing
  • Scholarship opportunities
  • Acceptance into highly selective universities

Top IB-Friendly Private Colleges (U.S.)

  1. University of Southern California
  2. New York University
  3. Northeastern University
  4. Boston University
  5. George Washington University
  6. University of Miami
  7. Tulane University
  8. Fordham University
  9. American University
  10. Syracuse University

Why These Schools Are IB-Friendly:

  • Offer college credit for IB HL courses (often scores of 5–7)
  • Provide merit scholarships and need-based aid
  • Value IB rigor in admissions decisions
  • Support full and partial IB Diploma students

Why IB at York Academy Matters

York Academy’s IB Programme develops students who are:

  • Critical thinkers
  • Strong writers and researchers
  • Globally aware and culturally competent
  • Prepared for college, careers, and leadership

Students graduate not just with a diploma, but with the skills and mindset needed to succeed in a rapidly changing world.