Frequently Asked Questions

1.    Why take the IB Diploma Programme?
       According to the May 2009 Canadian University Recognition Policy, 59 of 65 universities recognize        the IB Diploma Programme. Last year, the lowest GDHS IB Diploma student would have been        admitted to all 59 of the Canadian Universities that considered the IB Diploma Programme for        admission. Thirty Five (35) of these Canadian universities offer scholarships based upon IB Diploma        scores. (Recognition Policy  Summary Canadian Universities, May 2009 [online] www.ibo.org)

2.    What are the advantages of the IB Diploma?
       - an exciting multidisciplinary program
       - an excellent preparation for university study
       - enrichment opportunities beyond the OSSD program
       - internationally recognized curriculum, expectations, and focus
       - high level of university acceptance and scholarship potential
       - completion of the CAS requirement is an excellent addition to the “personal statement” that many        universities require for admission
       - sixty (60) Canadian Universities grant 1st year course credits for Higher Level IB subjects
       (Recognition Policy Summary - Canadian Universities, May 2009 [online] www.ibo.org)

3.    Can I apply if I do not live in Halton?
       Yes, however priority will be given to Halton students.

4 .   Can I tour the school before applying?
       Yes, please attend an ISP & IB information evening or contact the IB Coordinator.

5.    Can applicants make an appointment to see the IB Coordinator?
       Yes, please make an appointment with the IB coordinator.

6.    Who decides whether an applicant is accepted into the ISP & IB programmes?
       The IB coordinator will make all IB admission decisions. For grade 9 & 10 ISP all students who        apply will be considered & accepted based upon a number of criteria: enrolment capacity, academic        suitability, & completion of ISP Application Procedure. Final decision will be mailed out at by the end        of February.

7.    Where can I find ISP & IB applications?
       For incoming Grade 9 students from GDHS feeder schools, grade 9 option sheets will be available        from our guidance department in January. For all other GDHS students, & for students from outside        of the Halton Board of Education, all application forms must be downloaded from this website &        submitted using the instructions on each form.

8.    If I am going into Grade 10; can I still enter the ISP?
       New applicants are welcomed as long as they complete the ISP Application Procedure.

9.    If I complete Grade 10, can I enter the IB programme without having participated in ISP?
       Non ISP applicants to the IB programme are welcomed, however students are likely to experience        some difficulties with a lack of preparation and as a result this is not a route that is encouraged.

10.  Do candidate students write an entrance exam before being admitted into the GDHS ISP & IB        programmes?
       No they do not have to write an examination, however students wishing to enter the ISP Program are        required to complete the ISP Application Procedure.

11.  Is the IB Diploma programme difficult?
       It is challenging. The IB programme is designed to to be intellectually stimulating and interesting.

12.  Is there a cost to the ISP or IB programme?
       ISP grades 9 and 10: No Fees
       IB Diploma Year 1: $1200
       IB Diploma Year 2: $1200
       IB Certificate (Standard Level): $300 per course
       IB Certificate (High Level): $500 per course

• IB fees cover exam & registration costs
• There are mechanisms in place in the Halton Board of Education to support students that experience     serious financial difficulties. Families in this situation should see the IB coordinator and/or their Guidance counsellor.