IB Programs and AP Courses at SAS

Undertaking the challenges of the IB diploma program may be one of the hardest decisions a family will make regarding the education of their child. The program is rigorous and time-consuming. However, graduates of the IB diploma program at SAS go on to further study at some of the finest colleges and universities in the world. Students also have the option of taking individual higher and standard level IB courses for certificates. As with AP, students who score well on IB higher level examinations are eligible for credit at many universities.

Determining whether the IB diploma program or IB courses are right for your child is an important first step.

The IB diploma program, recognized by universities and schools around the world, ensure an increased adaptability and mobility for IB students. Many students graduating from the IB diploma program find their opportunities at tertiary institutions enhanced.

The curriculum and pedagogy focuses on international perspectives of learning and teaching, while insisting that students fully explore their home culture and language.

The core components of the IB program encourage students to participate in creative and service-oriented activities, while at the same time emphasizing the importance of reflection on a personal and academic level.

SAS offers a spectrum of specific university-level College Board Advanced Placement (AP) courses on both our Puxi and Pudong campuses.

Through college-level AP courses and their exams, students have the opportunity to earn credit or advanced standing at many of American colleges and universities. Students choosing these courses should exhibit "a strong curiosity about the subject...and the willingness to work hard.*"

As with decisions about IB course-work, SAS encourages students and their families to discuss with a counselor or AP teacher the workload and preparation that may be advisable for success in AP coursework.

*The following information about Advanced Placement is an excerpt from CollegeBoard.com [site] and might be useful in determining if AP classes are appropriate for your child.:

About Advanced Placement (AP)

AP can change your life. Through college-level AP courses, you enter a universe of knowledge that might otherwise remain unexplored in high school; through AP Exams, you have the opportunity to earn credit or advanced standing at most of the nation's colleges and universities.

The only requirements are a strong curiosity about the subject you plan to study and the willingness to work hard. Here are just a few reasons to sign up:

Gain the Edge in College Preparation

Get a head start on college-level work.

Improve your writing skills and sharpen your problem-solving techniques.

Develop the study habits necessary for tackling rigorous course work.

Stand Out in the College Admissions Process

Demonstrate your maturity and readiness for college.

Show your willingness to push yourself to the limit.

Emphasize your commitment to academic excellence.

Broaden Your Intellectual Horizons

Explore the world from a variety of perspectives, most importantly your own.

Study subjects in greater depth and detail.

Assume the responsibility of reasoning, analyzing, and understanding for yourself.

Once you've decided to take the AP challenge it's easy to enroll. Talk to an AP teacher or the AP Coordinator [or counselor] at [SAS] about the course you want to take. Discuss the course's workload and any preparation you might need.