How does the IB Diploma transfer from high school to college credits?

I'm working towards my IB Diploma and wonder how it transfers to college credits. Do most colleges accept the full diploma or just specific subjects?

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma is a rigorous program recognized worldwide, and many colleges and universities award credit for high scores on the end-of-course exams. These credits can help you place out of introductory college courses, or might even count toward general education requirements.

The specific amount and type of credit you can receive depend largely on the college you attend and your IB scores. Generally, universities are interested in higher-level (HL) scores of 6 or 7. Some may accept scores of 5 or even standard-level (SL) coursework. However, others may not consider SL courses at all.

It's important to note that not all colleges have the same policy, and some don't provide credit for the full diploma, choosing to credit individual subjects instead. Plus, how these credits are applied can vary, too. They might be applied as general education credits, credits toward your major, or elective credits. It's a good idea to research the credit policies of each university you're interested in, which can often be found on their website or by reaching out to their admissions office.

Getting college credit for your IB coursework can present a significant advantage, potentially saving you money and time, and allowing you to progress more quickly to advanced coursework. However, factors such as your field of study, the selectivity of your institution, and your LS or HL score can influence how your IB Diploma transfers into college credits.