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International Baccalaureate (IB)

Are you taking IB English and need some help with your studying? No need to reread all the books and poems you covered in class! This study guide is for IB English A students (students in IB English A: literature SL/HL, IB English A: language and literature SL/HL, or IB English literature and performance SL ) who are looking for additional guidance on writing their commentaries or essays.

I've compiled this IB English study guide using the best free materials available for this class. Use it to supplement your classwork and help you prepare for exams throughout the school year.

What's Tested on the IB English Exams?

The IB English courses are unique from other IB classes in that they don't have a very rigid curriculum with exact topics to cover. Instead, your class (or most likely your teacher) is given the freedom to choose what works (from a list of prescribed authors and a list of prescribed literature in translation from IBO) to teach. The exams reflect that freedom.

On the exam for all English A courses, you're asked to write essays that incorporate examples from novels, poems, plays, and other texts you've read. You're also asked to interpret a text that you've read for the first time the day of the exam.

The exact number of questions you'll have to answer varies by the course , but the types of questions asked on each all fall into the two categories listed above.

What's Offered in This Guide?

In this guide, I have compiled materials to help teach you how to interpret poetry and how to structure your essay/commentary. I've also provided notes on several books typically taught in IB English SL/HL.

This should be most of the material you need to study for your IB exam and to study for your in-class exams.

How to Interpret Poetry Guides

Many people struggle the most with the poetry material, and if you're one of those people, we have some resources specifically for making poetry questions easier.

Here is a full explanation of how to interpret poetry for the IB exam with term definitions, descriptions of types of poems, and examples. We also have tons of poetry resources on our blog that range from explaining specific terms all the way to complete, expert analyses of poems you should know.

Here are some resources to get you started:

• Imagery defined
• Everything you need to know about Point of View 
• The 20 poetic devices you should know 
• Understanding allusion 
• A crash course on Romantic poetry 
• Understanding personification 
• Famous sonnets, explained
• An expert guide to understanding rhyme and meter, including iambic pentameter
• The eight types of sonnets 
• Expert analysis of "Do not go gentle into that good night" by Dylan Thomas

This is another great resource with poetry terms defined on "flashcards" , and you can test yourself on the site by clicking "play."

How to Write Your Essay Guide

If you're not sure how to write your essay, here's a guide to what your essay should look like for the IB English SL/HL papers. This guide gives advice on how you should structure your essay and what you should include in it. It also contains a few sample questions so you can get a better idea of the types of prompts you can expect to see.

IB English Book Notes

Based on the list of prescribed authors and literature from IBO, I picked some of the most popular books to teach and provided links to notes on those works. What's important to remember from these books is key moments, themes, motifs, and symbols, so you can discuss them on your in-class tests and the IB papers.

• Adventures of Huckleberry Finn
• A Farewell to Arms
• Animal Farm
• All the Pretty Horses
• A Streetcar Named Desire
• Anna Karenina
• As I Lay Dying
• Brave New World
• Crime and Punishment
• Death of a Salesman
• A Doll's House
• Don Quixote
• Dr. Zhivago
• Frankenstein
• Great Expectations
• Heart of Darkness
• Lord of the Flies
• Love in the Time of Cholera
• Love Medicine
• One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich
• Romeo & Juliet
• Sense and Sensibility
• The Awakening
• The Bluest Eye
• The Great Gatsby
• The Picture of Dorian Gray
• The Stranger
• The Sun Also Rises
• Waiting for Godot

The Best Study Practices for IB English

Hopefully, this guide will be an asset to you throughout the school year for in-class quizzes as well as at the end of the year for the IB exam. Taking practice tests is also important, and you should also look at our other article for access to FREE IB English past papers to help you familiarize yourself with the types of questions asked by the IBO (and I'm sure your teacher will ask similar questions on your quizzes).

Make sure you're reading all of the novels and poetry assigned to you in class, and take detailed notes on them. This will help you remember key themes and plot points so you don't find yourself needing to reread a pile of books right before the exam.

Finally, keep up with the material you learn in class, and don't fall behind. Reading several novels the week before the IB exam won't be much help. You need to have time and let the material sink in over the course of the class, so you're able to remember it easily on the day of the IB exam.

What's Next?

Want some more study materials for IB English? Our guide to IB English past papers has links to every free and official past IB English paper available!

Are you hoping to squeeze in some extra IB classes ? Learn about the IB courses offered online by reading our guide.

Not sure where you want to go to college? Check out our guide to finding your target school. Also, figure out your target SAT score or target ACT score .

As an SAT/ACT tutor, Dora has guided many students to test prep success. She loves watching students succeed and is committed to helping you get there. Dora received a full-tuition merit based scholarship to University of Southern California. She graduated magna cum laude and scored in the 99th percentile on the ACT. She is also passionate about acting, writing, and photography.

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Here you'll find a detailed explanation of each admission application requirement. Most of the information here applies to both first-year and transfer applicants, and requirements are the same for domestic and international applicants.  

Don't forget to reference our Application Tips for guidance on filling out the Common Application.

Application

We accept the Common Application  and the Coalition Application by Scoir . Both are treated equally by the Admissions Committee. Complete and submit your materials as soon as possible to ensure full and timely consideration of your application. Your portions of the application are due by the application deadlines (November 1 for Restrictive Early Action and January 1 for Regular Decision); high school counselors are given an additional week to submit materials on your behalf. 

If you use the Common Application , you must submit your application before your supporting materials (Secondary School Report, Teacher Recommendations, etc.) can be released to a college. Until you submit your own application sections, no part of your application will be transmitted to the Harvard Admissions Office.

If you use the Coalition Application , remember you must submit the separate Harvard supplement in addition to the application by the application deadline for your application to be considered complete. 

Submitting Your Application

Receiving confirmation of your application.

After you submit your application, we will send an email confirmation with a PIN to access the Applicant Portal. We begin sending these daily application confirmation emails in mid-September each year. Most applicant receive their confirmation email the day after they submit their application online. Applications sent in the mail will take up to two weeks to process.

If you have not received your confirmation email, please check your spam/junk folder for messages from [email protected] or [email protected]. 

If have searched your inbox and still cannot find your confirmation email, we encourage you to check the application system you used and ensure you clicked "Submit" and not just "Save".

If you still cannot locate your application confirmation email, please contact us . Choose the category “Admissions” and then the subject “Applicant Questions (if you've already submitted your application)” in the drop-down menu, or call 617-495-1551.

Paying the application fee or requesting a fee waiver

You may pay your application fee online with a credit card via the Common Application or Coalition Application, Powered by Scoir websites.

You may also send a check or money order to Harvard College Admissions, 86 Brattle Street, Cambridge, MA 02138. Please include the applicant’s name with the payment.

Fee waivers: We are committed to making the application process accessible for all students. If the admissions application fee presents a hardship for you or your family and you plan on applying for financial aid, the fee will be waived. Please follow these instructions to request your fee waiver . Requesting a fee waiver will not disadvantage your application in any way.

Completing the Harvard supplement questions

Complete the Harvard Questions with the Common Application or Coalition Application, Powered by Scoir*. This includes the following five required short-answer questions, each with a 200 word limit. 

• Harvard has long recognized the importance of enrolling a diverse student body. How will the life experiences that shape who you are today enable you to contribute to Harvard?
• Briefly describe an intellectual experience that was important to you. 
• Briefly describe any of your extracurricular activities, employment experience, travel, or family responsibilities that have shaped who you are.
• How do you hope to use your Harvard education in the future?
• Top 3 things your roommates might like to know about you. 

*Please note that the Harvard supplement is separate for the Coalition Application, so you must submit both the application AND supplement for your application to be considered complete. 

Additional application questions

What if i am homeschooled.

Each applicant to Harvard College is considered with great care and homeschooled applicants are treated the same as all other applicants. There is no special process, but all relevant information about your educational and personal background is welcome. In addition to the application, all applicants are required to submit a transcript (which can be created by the family member or agency overseeing your schooling), and recommendations. If the application fee presents a hardship for your family,  simply request a fee waiver .

Hear from Harvard students who were homeschooled, in the Harvard Gazette article ‘ Homeschooled en route to Harvard .’

What if I need to make updates to my application after I submit it?

Do not resend your application in order to make updates. If you need to update your identification or contact information, or send updates, additional information, or corrections, please do so via the  Applicant Portal .

Misrepresentation of Credentials

Be completely accurate in your application materials. If we discover a misrepresentation during the admissions process, you will be denied admission. If you have already been admitted, your offer will typically be withdrawn. If you have already registered, your admission will normally be revoked, and we will require you to leave the College. Harvard rescinds degrees if misrepresentations in application materials are discovered.

The determination that an application is inaccurate or contains misrepresentations rests solely with the Admissions Office and will be resolved outside the student disciplinary process.

School Reports and Teacher Recommendations

Secondary school report.

The secondary school report is a required form that is submitted by your school counselor or another school leader. This form gives an overview of the student's academic record. It includes the applicant's academic transcript(s), a letter of recommendation, and a school profile (if available). If a counselor is unable to submit a letter of recommendation for the applicant, another teacher or school leader may submit an additional recommendation letter. 

Midyear School Report

When you apply, your school counselor will often send your transcript with few or no senior year course grades included. That is why the midyear school report is required - to allow us to review your performance in the first half of your senior year coursework .  The midyear school report must be completed by your school counselor or other school official. Please request that the midyear school report is completed and returned to our office as soon as possible. 

Midyear School Report FAQs

What if i'm applying restrictive early action and i don't have my midyear grades yet.

Restrictive Early Action applicants are not required to submit the midyear report by the November 1 deadline. If you applied Restrictive Early Action and are deferred to Regular Decision, please submit the midyear report and transcript in February, or as soon as your midyear grades are available.

I'm an international student and my academic year is different. Do I still need to submit the midyear report?

If you study the IB curriculum or the A-level curriculum, then we expect that your school will send predicted grades, based on your current classroom work and the results of any internal or mock exams you have taken up to that point. If your school does not issue official or predicted midyear grades for your final year of school, then you do not need to submit the midyear report form, although the item may remain on your checklist.

What if I have already graduated from high school?

If you have already graduated from high school, you should ignore the midyear report requirement (though the item may remain on your Checklist in the Applicant Portal) and simply ask your school to send a final school report if you have not already done so.

Teacher Evaluations

Ask two teachers in different academic subjects who know you well to complete the Teacher Recommendation forms (which includes an evaluation form and a letter of recommendation). If you wish to submit additional letters of recommendation, you can do so after you submit your application. In your application confirmation email, there will be a personalized link to send to your recommenders.

What courses should I take to prepare for applying to Harvard?

There is no “one size fits all” rule about which curriculum to study during secondary school years. Students should challenge themselves by taking courses deemed appropriate by their teachers and counselors. But some students believe that “more is always better” when it comes to AP, IB or other advanced courses.

While some students prosper academically and personally by taking large numbers of such courses, others benefit from a more balanced approach that allows them additional time for extracurricular and personal development. Even the best students can be negatively affected by taking too many courses at once, and might benefit instead from writing, reading or research projects on subjects of great interest to them.

To learn more, read our Guide to Preparing for College. To avoid the “burnout” often seen among secondary school students, please refer to our article, Time Out or Burn Out for the Next Generation .

Is there a specific math requirement?

Applicants to Harvard should excel in a challenging high school math sequence corresponding to their educational interests and aspirations. We recommend that applicants take four years of math courses in high school. Ideally, these math courses will focus on conceptual understanding, promote higher-order thinking, and encourage students to use mathematical reasoning to critically examine the world. Examples include rigorous and relevant courses in computer science, statistics and its subfields, mathematical modeling, calculus, and other advanced math subjects.

Students’ math records are viewed holistically, and no specific course is required. Specifically, calculus is not a requirement for admission to Harvard. We understand that applicants do not have the same opportunities and course offerings in their high schools. Moreover, many programs of study at Harvard do not require knowledge of calculus. We encourage applicants to take the courses that are available to them and aligned with their interests and goals.

Students intending to study engineering, computer science, physics, mathematics, statistics or other fields where calculus is needed may benefit from taking calculus in high school. However, students at Harvard can still pursue such fields by starting with one of our introductory calculus classes that has no high school calculus prerequisite. On balance, we encourage all students to master foundational mathematical material instead of rushing through any of the more advanced courses.

Final School Report and Transcripts

All admitted students who choose to enroll are required to send a Final School Report and transcript as soon as their final grades become available – no later than July 1 . The Final School Report and transcript should be completed and sent by a school counselor or other school official through:

• Naviance Network
• Common Application
• Coalition/Scoir Application

IB students should send their final results as soon as they are released in mid-July. We will expect to see final A levels results by mid-August. We are unable to accept a transcript as an email attachment.

Standardized Test Scores

Harvard College will require the submission of standardized test scores from applicants for admission as part of the comprehensive application process that takes a whole-student approach.

The College will accept the SAT or ACT to meet the standardized testing requirement. In exceptional cases when those tests are not accessible, one of the following can meet the requirement:   

• AP exam results
• IB Actual or Predicted Scores   
• GCSE/A-Level Actual or Predicted Results   
• National Leaving Exams Results or Predictions

Standardized Testing FAQs

Can i self-report my test scores.

Yes. Applicants may provide self-reported SAT and ACT test scores (including Subject Tests, Advanced Placement, IB, etc.). Admitted students who decide to enroll at Harvard College will be required to submit official test scores.

How do I send my test scores?

You are free to use the College Board Score Choice option or the similar option offered by the ACT. Our official codes are 3434 for the College Board SAT Reasoning Tests and 1840 for the ACT if you are submitting official test scores as part of your application.

• How to send your SAT scores
• How to send your ACT scores

Are there test score "cutoffs"?

There are no score cutoffs, and we do not admit “by the numbers.” For the ACT, we will evaluate your highest composite score and any other scores you choose to share with us. We take into account your educational background when reviewing your scores.

How should I prepare for standardized tests?

Our admissions committee understands that opportunities to prepare for standardized tests vary greatly for students of different socioeconomic backgrounds. You may find it helpful to utilize free-test prep from Khan Academy or join a free SAT bootcamp on Schoolhouse.world . The ACT provides sample tests to practice.  Such free programs could help students from under-resourced schools by providing the academic tools that will serve them well on standardized tests and also in college. Students can also do well by studying widely and deeply  on their own with the help of family, school, or community organizations.

What do standardized tests and grades indicate about academic preparation for college?

SAT and ACT tests are better predictors of Harvard grades than high school grades. However, admission officers understand that not all students attend well-resourced schools throughout their lives, and that those who come from modest economic backgrounds or first-generation college families may have had fewer opportunities to prepare for standardized tests.

High school grades in a rigorous academic program can also be helpful in assessing readiness for college courses, but the thousands of secondary schools around the country and the world employ various high school curricula and a wide range of grading systems - and some have no grades at all. Other students have been homeschooled or prepared for college by taking part in multiple schooling opportunities both in person and electronic.

Given the wide variation in how students prepare for Harvard – as well as the fact that most applicants and admitted students have outstanding academic records – it is difficult for high school grades to differentiate individual applications. That does not mean that high school grades are unimportant. Students who come to Harvard have done well day to day in their high school studies, providing a crucial foundation for academic success in college, including a 97% - 98% graduation rate.

Each application to Harvard is read with great care, keeping in mind that talent is everywhere, but opportunity and access are not.

How will Harvard evaluate the new digital SAT?

The College Board's shift to a digital delivery of the SAT will not impact the way in which Harvard reviews test scores within applications. Please  visit the College Board FAQs  for more information.  

Supplemental Materials

Our standard application materials typically give us ample information for making admission decisions. However, we recognize you may have truly exceptional talents or achievements you wish to share, and we want you to have every opportunity to best represent yourself.

At the discretion of the Admissions Committee, supplementary materials—such as music recordings, artwork, or selected samples of academic work—may be evaluated by faculty. These materials are entirely optional.

Material Types

How to submit documents and articles.

Scholarly articles, research, creative writing or other documents of which you are the primary author should be submitted in the Upload Materials section of the Applicant Portal . This is the most efficient and direct method of submitting these materials, because they will be added directly to your official application. All submissions should include a list of any individuals with whom you collaborated in the production of the work. If appropriate, please identify your research sponsor, mentor, and/or laboratory or research group leader and provide a short description of your particular contribution to the work.

How to submit media (video, audio, or images)

You may submit optional supplementary media materials (e.g. videos, audio recordings, or images) electronically via Slideroom . Details for submissions in art, dance or choreography, musical performance or composition, will be found on the Slideroom website. There is a small submission fee, but if this fee causes you economic hardship, you may request a fee waiver at the point of submission. You may also contact us to request a fee waiver.

If you encounter technical difficulties on Slideroom, you may submit a document via your portal with YouTube video links. Our team may follow up to request a Slideroom submission at a later time. 

Should I submit other academic materials?

Harvard accepts other standardized tests or other academic credentials if you choose to submit them. In any admissions process, additional information can be helpful. For example, Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, A-levels, national leaving examinations, national or international contests, early high school assessment scores such as the PSAT or pre-ACT, or courses taken outside your school during the school year or summer are just some examples of information that could be submitted. Subject Tests and the essay portion of the SAT have been terminated, except in certain special circumstances. Harvard admission officers review all materials that an applicant submits, so if you’ve already taken Subject Tests or the essay portion of the SAT, you may still submit them along with your other application materials.

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A guide to the ib.

Here is a blog where I talk about anything and everything possible about the IB, both within Finland and around the world!

The Ultimate Guide to IB Schools in Finland: FAQ

• Being able to be part of the organisation European Youth Parliament (EYP)
• Volunteering in the World Summit of Students for Climate Change (WSSC)
• Participating in Helsinki International Model United Nations (HELIMUN)
• Soon-to-be participating in Slush 2019

• Ressun Lukio: 2 English essay prompts (a poem and a quote), a math test, and a multiple choice science test
• SYK: A math test, an English essay and 2 group interviews
• In the year I did the exams (2017), the Etis and Mattlidens exam was conjoined and included: a math exam, a second language exam and an English exam

Nice Infomation!!Thank you for sharing such great information. Best Ibdp Schools In Mumbai

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How To Prepare For IB Exams

‍ Are you worried about taking the IB exams? Don’t fret; we’ll cover how to prepare for IB exams and everything else you need to know.  ‍

The International Baccalaureate (IB) exams are standardized tests in the globally recognized IB program for high school students aged 16 to 19. These exams cover languages, sciences, mathematics, humanities, and the arts through written exams, coursework, and practical assessments.

Preparing for IB exams is tough but worthwhile for high schoolers. Success requires a solid grasp of subjects across various disciplines, along with critical thinking and research skills. 

To ace your exams and achieve an IB diploma , students need effective study strategies, time management skills, and a proactive approach to learning. This guide offers practical tips to help students excel in IB exams, whether just starting out or already immersed in the program.

How to Prepare for IB Exams: Steps to Take

Below, we’ll cover easy-to-follow steps to help you with IB preparation. 

Step One: Create a Study Plan

Creating a study plan is crucial for preparing for the IB exams , as it provides a structured and organized approach to preparation. A well-designed study plan should include several key components: 

• Clear timeline : It should have a clear timeline outlining the duration of the study period and setting deadlines for completing specific tasks. This helps you manage time effectively and ensures you cover all necessary material before the exams. 
• Syllabus breakdown : The study plan should incorporate a detailed syllabus breakdown specifying the topics and subjects to be studied. This helps allocate sufficient time for each subject and ensures comprehensive coverage. 
• Regular revision sessions : Should include regular revision sessions to reinforce learning and consolidate knowledge. Practice questions and past papers should also be incorporated to familiarize yourself with the exam format and develop exam-taking skills.
• Flexibility : The study plan should allow for flexibility to adapt to unexpected challenges or changes in priorities. 

Lastly, it is essential to include breaks in the study plan to prevent burnout and maintain overall well-being. Let’s take a look at one: 

Step Two: Allocate Time to Study

Allocating time to study for these exams is important for a student's success. The curriculum covered in the IB program requires a lot of time to grasp the knowledge across various subjects. You can thoroughly understand complex concepts and develop a strong foundation by dedicating focused study time. 

Strategically allocating time also enables proper organization and planning. It allows you to create a study schedule, dividing your preparation time evenly among different subjects and topics. This balanced approach also prevents last-minute cramming. 

You are able to identify areas of weakness and assign additional focus to those topics. By giving yourself adequate time to revise and practice, you’ll have a better chance of doing well on exam day. 

Step Three: Review Class Notes

Reviewing class notes is a great way to prepare for the IB exams. Class notes serve as a valuable resource that captures important information, explanations, and examples. By reviewing these notes regularly, students reinforce their understanding of key concepts and fill in any gaps in their knowledge.

Additionally, reviewing class notes allows students to identify any areas of confusion or topics that require further clarification. They can then seek assistance from their teachers and tutors and engage in discussions with peers, or conduct additional research to deepen their understanding.

Step Four: Practice Using Past IB Exam Papers

Using past IB exam papers is a great way to study. Past papers offer numerous benefits that contribute to a student's assessment success. 

Firstly, they provide insight into the exam format, question types, and difficulty level, allowing you to familiarize yourself with the exam’s expectations. Students become more comfortable and confident in their exam-taking abilities by practicing with past papers. 

Past papers are also an effective tool for assessing knowledge and identifying areas that require further improvement. By attempting questions from previous exams, students can gauge their understanding of different topics, evaluate their performance, and gain a realistic perspective of their strengths and weaknesses. 

Step Five: Take Breaks

Taking breaks while preparing for the IB exams is essential for students’ well-being and academic success. Continuous studying without breaks can lead to burnout, diminishing productivity, and increasing stress levels. 

Incorporating scheduled breaks into your study sessions allows you to recharge your mental and physical energy while improving focus and concentration. 

Step Six: Manage Your Stress Levels

Managing stress levels is important for preparing for the IB exams. The pressure and high expectations associated with these exams can increase stress, negatively impacting academic performance and overall well-being. 

By effectively managing stress, you can optimize and improve your chances of success. High stress levels can hinder concentration, memory retention, and cognitive functioning, making it harder to absorb and recall information. 

Ensure you combat your stress levels in activities you enjoy. Whether exercising, reading a book, or painting, whatever the activity is, do it!

How Long Should You Prepare for IB Exams?

The time needed to prepare for IB exams can vary depending on several factors, including your prior knowledge, study habits, academic strengths, and the number of subjects taken. 

Generally, it is recommended to allocate a significant amount of time for preparation, ideally four to five months in advance. This allows for a thorough understanding of the curriculum, revision of key concepts, and ample time to practice past papers and develop exam-taking skills. 

It's important to remember that individual study needs may differ, and some students may require more or less time based on their circumstances. It is advisable to create a study plan and timeline considering the specific subjects being studied and the student's learning pace and commitments.

FAQs: IB Preparation

If you still have questions after reading this article, explore these frequently asked questions regarding how to get ready for IB exams.

1. Is It Hard to Pass IB Exams?

Passing IB exams can be challenging due to their rigorous nature. The exams assess students' in-depth understanding of the subjects and their ability to apply critical thinking, analytical skills, and knowledge. 

Keep in mind that an exam’s difficulty level can vary from student to student, depending on the subject and individual strengths. However, it is possible to pass the IB exams with proper preparation, organization, and teacher support.

2. How Many Hours a Day Should an IB Student Study?

To excel in the IB program, allocating one hour per day for each subject you’re taking is recommended. However, it may be beneficial to dedicate around two hours per day to subjects you find challenging or consider your weaker areas. 

Following this routine, you can aim for approximately four hours of focused study daily. This consistent and structured study approach will greatly contribute to your success in the IB exams.

3. What Is a Good IB Score for Ivy League?

Regarding Ivy League admissions, a good IB score is around 38 to 40 or higher out of the maximum score of 45. However, it's important to note that IB scores are just one aspect of the admissions process for Ivy League schools.

Admissions committees also evaluate other factors such as academic performance, extracurricular involvement, essays, and letters of recommendation. 

Final Thoughts

IB preparation requires a thoughtful and strategic approach to ensure success. You can maximize your study efforts by following key steps and implementing effective test-taking techniques.

It begins with creating a comprehensive study plan that allocates time to each subject, prioritizes areas of weakness, and allows for regular revision and practice. Utilizing resources such as past IB exam papers helps familiarize students with the exam format and difficulty level. 

Taking breaks and managing stress is crucial to maintaining well-being and optimizing learning. By embracing these strategies and approaching IB exams with determination and focus, you can pave the way for success and achieve your academic goals.

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Preparing for the IB Exams Study Tips and Strategies for IBDP-Students

Are you an International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) student gearing up for those crucial IB exams? If so, you’re likely feeling a mix of anticipation, excitement, and maybe a touch of anxiety. Rest assured, you’re not alone in this journey, and at IB Scholars, we’re here to provide you with the ultimate guide to help you prepare effectively and confidently for your IB exams.

1. Start Early : One of the key secrets to success in IB exams is to start early. Don’t procrastinate. Begin your preparation as soon as your courses begin, and you’ll find yourself better equipped to manage the workload.

2. Organize Your Study Schedule : Create a study schedule that outlines what topics you’ll cover and when. Be realistic and ensure you allocate adequate time to each subject. Consistency is key.

3. Know Your Syllabus : Familiarize yourself with the syllabus for each subject. Understand the depth and breadth of the material you need to cover. This will help you prioritize your studies.

4. Master Active Learning : Passive reading won’t get you far in IB. Engage actively with your study materials. Take notes, ask questions, and seek clarification when needed.

5. Seek Guidance : Don’t hesitate to reach out to your teachers or consider getting a dedicated IB tutor. At IB Scholars, our experienced tutors are here to provide you with personalized support, helping you grasp difficult concepts and improve your exam performance.

6. Practice Past Papers : Practice, practice, practice! Past papers are invaluable resources for getting a feel for the exam format and types of questions. Analyze your mistakes to identify areas that need improvement.

7. Create Study Aids : Summarize your notes, create flashcards, and use mind maps to visualize complex concepts. These aids will be invaluable when revising closer to your exams.

8. Prioritize Self-Care : Don’t neglect your physical and mental well-being. Get enough sleep, eat healthily, and take short breaks during study sessions. A refreshed mind performs better.

9. Form Study Groups : Collaborate with peers to study and discuss challenging topics. Explaining concepts to others can solidify your own understanding.

10. Stay Consistent : Stick to your study schedule, but also make time for relaxation and leisure. Balance is essential for long-term success.

Remember, preparing for IB exams is not just about memorization; it’s about understanding and applying knowledge. At IB Scholars, we’re committed to helping you excel in your IB journey. If you’re looking for expert guidance, personalized support, and a wealth of resources, don’t hesitate to contact us at +971 50 237 1313 or visit our website at www.ibscholars.com .

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Admissions & Entrance Exam Preparation

Here are some of our successful Admission & Entrance Exam Preparation students from past years! We trained them for various prestigious gifted school entrance exams, and all were accepted!

We have successfully trained thousands of students for admittance to over 50 independent elementary and high schools and specialized programs including: University of Toronto Schools, Upper Canada College, Crescent School, Branksome Hall, Bishop Strachan & more. We also work with students applying for and transitioning into prestigious School Board International Baccalaureate and specialized STEM programs.

Our students are admitted at five times the average admission entry rate for their program of choice.  We believe this is due to a holistic approach that integrates school selection, application support, mentorship for interviews and essays, and specialized entrance exam preparation .  Admissions are no longer about grades and reports cards. Quite the contrary, admissions officers for elite programs are looking for students who demonstrate the potential to make a transformational impact in the world.  We love working with students to build authentic and compelling narratives that help them to shine.

Because schools often change entrance requirements, our hands-on team ensures students are prepared no matter what the format of the examination will be!

(Students may register for BOTH Summer and Fall English and Math Preparation courses. The material does NOT repeat.)

SUMMER 2024

• Summer Admissions & Exam Prep. (Gr. 6-8)

FALL-WINTER 2024-25

• Fall Admissions & Exam Prep. (Gr. 6-8)
• Interviews and UTS Stage 2 Prep. (Gr. 6-8)

Which courses should I take?

• Trying for a Canadian Independent School? Take Admissions & Entrance Exam Preparation (Summer 2023 and/or Fall 2023).
• Trying for UTS Stage 1 ?   Take Admissions & Entrance Exam Preparation (Summer 2023 and/or Fall 2023).
• Trying for UTS Stage 2 ?  Take Interviews and UTS Stage 2 Preparation (Winter 2024).
• Trying for IB ?   Take Admissions & Entrance Exam Preparation (Summer 2023 and/or Fall 2023).
• Transitioning into Pre-IB ?  Take our Pre-IB Transition Workshop (Summer 2023).

Got in? What next? More Brain Power!

Most of our Entrance Exam Prep students continue to study at Brain Power after being accepted to the gifted/specialty program of their choice. In fact, many Brain Power students attend gifted day-school programs, both private and public; why? because the Brain Power focuses on academic acceleration and complexity that is specifically tailored for high-potential students.  Here is one of our students giving his reasons for staying at Brain Power after being accepted into UCC:

“I still come to Brain Power after being accepted to Upper Canada College because Brain Power educates in a way no other institution can. It provides me with some of the most useful writing and oral skills I can possibly ever need. Most of all, I love going and spending time with others who want to enrich themselves, and enjoy great teachers who are also great friends.” Ernst Ma – UCC and Brain Power student

Below are links to various schools in the GTA that offer gifted or advanced/enrichment learning:

Would you like to schedule a free assessment or learn more about our other programs, get in touch for a free assessment interview, get in touch to have our office contact you about summer registration, math masters, fall-winter 2023-24.

Grades 1-2:  Sundays, Sept. 10-Feb. 25, 12:00-1:00 (Vaughan) Grades 1-2:  Tuesdays, Sept. 12-Feb. 27, 5:00-6:00 (Vaughan) Grades 1-2: Tuesdays, Sept. 12-Feb. 27, 5:00-6:00 (Toronto) Grades 1-2:  Wednesdays, Sept. 13-Feb. 28, 5:00-6:00 (Oakville)

ENIGMA EXPLORERS: ADVANCED LOGIC & PUZZLES

GRADES:  1-3

This workshop series aims to develop students’ ability to visualize, manipulate, and understand spatial relationships while having fun with puzzles and challenges.

We will briefly introduce different types of puzzles and their history that allow for solo and collaboration opportunities. Some Math-focused interactive Brain teasers will challenge minds and test their logic and problem-solving skills.   Through various puzzles and challenges, the program will stimulate kids’ creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. The workshop series will encourage teamwork, enhance logical reasoning, and promote a love for learning interactively and entertainingly.

After completing this program,  students will be able to integrate a variety of puzzles and spatial reasoning activities in the various areas of their lives. This workshop provides an enriching experience that challenges kids’ minds, encourages creativity, and nurtures their spatial reasoning abilities.

PRIMARY 1 GRADES 1-2 (based on assessment)

Brain Power’s Primary 1 program is designed to enable bright students in Grades 1-2 to: 

• Build sophisticated and useful vocabulary
• Strengthen grammar skills (e.g. learning word types)
• Improve spelling through phonological awareness
• Improve  reading fluency, accuracy, and comprehension
• Develop analytical and critical thinking skills
• Write  full, clear, and coherent sentences
• Produce short creative writing and opinion pieces
• Excel in their elementary school classes New students must have a free assessment before being placed in our full-year language arts program. Contact us to learn more: [email protected] .

Welcome to Brain Power! Our enrichment program is tailored for bright and curious children, designed to discover and nurture their unique strengths. During our complimentary assessment, conducted by a PhD or expert educator, you’ll gain valuable insights into your child’s abilities and learning style. This helps us ensure that your child is placed in the class that optimally supports their educational growth.

Interested in our Language Arts or Math & Problem Solving programs? Booking your child’s assessment is quick and easy—just two minutes and you’re set! You can schedule it HERE .

Please note that our Public Speaking annual program and various workshops do not require an assessment. Families are welcome to book a time or visit us to learn more about these programs. To book a visit, conversion, or for direct registration, please email our dedicated admissions team at [email protected] .

Thank you, and we look forward to welcoming you and your child to Brain Power soon!