DP — IB Diploma Programme (Grades 11–12)

“Depth. Balance. Global Futures.”

A supportive and academically rich international secondary education that helps students grow into confident, thoughtful individuals ready to take on the opportunities of a connected world.

Empowering Future-Ready Graduates

In Grades 11 and 12, our IB Diploma Programme (DP) offers a two-year pathway of intellectual challenge, university preparation, and global citizenship. At CIS, students refine autonomy, critical thinking, and research skills in a supportive, purpose-driven environment that balances academic rigor with personal growth. Our graduates leave ready to thrive in higher education and beyond.

Balanced Curriculum

"Six subjects, depth and choice"

Six subject groups — Language & Literature (English, German), Language Acquisition (German, Spanish, French, English), Individuals & Societies (History, Business, Geography), Sciences (Biology, Physics, Environmental Systems and Societies, Sports Exercise and Health Science), Mathematics (Analysis and Approaches, Applications and Interpretations), Arts & Electives (Visual Arts, Music, Chemistry, Psychology, Computer Science) — taken at Standard or Higher Level depending on student focus. Interdisciplinary connections foster deeper understanding and real-world application.

Core Components

"TOK, EE, and CAS for holistic development"

Theory of Knowledge (TOK) encourages critical thinking across disciplines. The Extended Essay (EE) is an independent 4,000-word research project aligned with students’ interests. Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) develops well-rounded, socially responsible graduates.

University & Career Preparation

"Guidance for next steps"

Comprehensive guidance includes subject selection, application planning, personal statement writing, interviews, and support for German, European, and international university requirements. Students also explore non-university pathways, including apprenticeships, gap years, and volunteer programs.

Supportive Community & Well-Being

"Mentoring and personal growth"

Small class sizes, mentoring, and accessible teachers foster academic success and personal development. The calm, inclusive environment emphasizes wellbeing, resilience, and responsible digital citizenship.

Extracurricular Engagement

"Clubs, projects, and leadership opportunities"

Opportunities for leadership and skill development through clubs such as Model United Nations, Debate, STEM projects, and student-led initiatives. Trips to Ghana, Madagascar, and India enhance global awareness and personal growth.

Global Awareness & Experiences

"Transformative learning beyond the classroom"

Trips and projects broaden students’ perspectives, foster empathy, and develop leadership and cultural understanding — preparing graduates to thrive in a connected world.

Assessment & Recognition

Internal assessments throughout Grades 11–12 monitor progress and provide ongoing feedback.
External IB exams at the end of Grade 12 offer international benchmarking and recognition.
The IB Diploma is widely accepted by universities worldwide and equivalent to the German Abitur.

Globally Benchmarked Excellence

Ongoing Internal Assessment

Worldwide University Access

Beyond Graduation

DP graduates leave CIS with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to excel at leading universities or pursue meaningful personal and professional paths. They emerge as curious, ethical, and globally minded individuals, prepared to make a positive impact.

Academically Prepared for Top Universities

Globally-Minded and Ethical Individuals

Equipped for Meaningful Futures

IB Diploma Results

Since launching the IB DP in 2014, our students have consistently achieved excellent results, surpassing global averages and demonstrating the high academic standards, dedication, and support provided at our school. A significant proportion of graduates achieve top scores, reflecting both individual potential and the quality of our teaching.

Year	Number of Diploma Candidates	Average Diploma Score	Highest Diploma Score
2019	17	30	39
2020	27	34	40
2021	20	33	42
2022	20	34	41
2023	23	30	39
2024	39	32.3	43
2025	37	33	44

Explore our sample timetable for Grades 11-12

Grades 11 to 12 at Cologne International School are about mastering complex subjects and completing the personal project. Explore our timetable to see a week in the life of an MYP student.

Commonly Asked Questions

The IB Diploma Programme (IB DP) is a globally recognised qualification that develops academic rigour, critical thinking and international awareness — preparing students for higher education and careers across the globe.

Yes. The IB Diploma is fully recognized by German universities (via the Kultusministerkonferenz guidelines) and by universities worldwide. Our school ensures that students meet the necessary subject and language combinations to satisfy German higher education requirements.

Students are supported by the dedicated DP coordinator, subject teachers, and mentors who guide them academically and emotionally. We also offer career and university counseling to help with applications, decision-making, and life after graduation.

Absolutely. IB Diploma students continue to participate in clubs, sports, service projects, and creative opportunities. They also complete the CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) component of the DP, which encourages balanced development beyond academics.

Class sizes range from 5 to 20 students. Classes remain generally small to support personalized attention and strong teacher-student relationships. This ensures that each student receives guidance suited to their learning needs.

IB Diploma Students Moments

Apply Now!

We guide motivated students through the IB Diploma Programme with academic challenge and personal support. If you’re considering Grades 11–12 for your child, we’re here to talk about how Cologne International School can prepare them for university and beyond.

Time	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday
08:15 - 09:45	Targeted Learning	Spanish / French / EAL	Math	The Arts	Humanities
09:45 - 10:15	Snack & Break
10:15 - 11:15	Humanities	The Arts	English	English	Personal Growth
11:15 - 12:15	Math	English	Science	Science	German / GAL
12:15 - 13:15		Science
13:15 - 13:45	Lunch & Break
13:45 - 14:15	Spanish / French / EAL	Homeroom	German / GAL	Sport	Math
14:15 - 15:15	German / GAL	Clubs	Clubs	Clubs	Clubs
15:15 - 16:45	Clubs	Cubs	Clubs	Clubs	Clubs