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International Baccalaureate Programs are gaining in popularity in Long Island high schools. Originally established for children of overseas diplomats and businessmen, it has picked up steam in the United States and abroad. Although many students initially balk at the rigors of the program, they invariably become strong advocates of it, and feel that it gives them an added edge in the college admissions game. College admissions counselors recognize and are impressed by the strength of the IB programs and can’t dispute that it sets students apart.   

The program, however, is not for every student. Like the Advanced Placement track, IB is merely an option for motivated, high-achieving students who are willing to work hard and challenge themselves.  The school districts that offer the program allow students to opt for taking individual IB courses or the complete two-year diploma option.

The program typically begins with required summer readings prior to junior year, and includes two-year courses in English and “History of the Americas,” which covers United States history and post-war foreign relations, in addition to math, foreign language and science.  Writing is a very strong component of the program, requiring students to write numerous papers, including a 4,000 word paper that is akin to a college thesis. Grading standards are maintained by having papers and tests scored by teachers or professors in other parts of the U.S and abroad.

All of this high level enrichment doesn’t come cheap. The IB program is a costly one for a school district to implement; approximately $23,000 in application fees and a $10,000 annual membership fee, plus costs of teacher training, books and materials, which can easily add up to over $70,000. Students pay a one-time registration fee of $141 and, similar to AP courses, about $96 for each exam.

Despite the costs, admirers of this program are growing. Along with the cache that comes with having gone through this program, are the perceived college admissions advantages, strong friendships formed in the trenches with like-minded student peers, and the superior writing skills that are developed from the rigorous writing requirements.

Rockville Centre’s school district, which started offering the IB Program in 1981, stood alone for quite some time.  But Long Island districts are getting smitten; recent districts that have come aboard include: Bay Shore, Commack, Locust Valley, Long Beach, Northport/East Northport, Rockville Centre and West Islip.

Anita Glick is a freelance writer and college essay consultant. She can be contacted at stoa4@aol.com