FAQ

IB DIPLOMA PROGRAMME

ADMISSIONS 
What are the entry requirements for continuing with the IB Diploma Programme at NIS? 
Students will need to have successfully completed Year 11 with strong academic performance in subjects relevant to their intended IB course selections, as well as showing strong proficiency in core subjects such as Mathematics and English to handle the rigour of the programme. We highly value students who exhibit skills in critical thinking, independent learning and global mindedness. If there are any concerns about a student’s readiness, the school will develop a tailored plan for improvement and provide additional support as needed.  

Do I need to confirm my enrolment in the IB Diploma Programme at NIS? 
Yes, students are required to confirm their enrolment in the IB Diploma Programme at NIS. This helps the school finalise subject options, timetables, and resources to ensure a smooth start to the programme. Families are encouraged to submit their initial subject preference form soon, in order to confirm their interest in continuing with the IB Diploma Programme at NIS next school year, and to make sure they will be part of our planning for next year. 

SUBJECTS 
How do students choose their subjects, and what factors should they consider? 
Students should select their IB Diploma Programme subjects by considering their personal interests, academic strengths, potential career aspirations and specific university requirements. To support this process, individual meetings with students and parents will be held in January. During these sessions, Diploma Programme Coordinator, Chris Boerman, will provide personalised guidance to help identify subject combinations that align with each student’s goals and strengths. Subject choices will be confirmed before the Summer break, as not all subject combinations may be possible due to timetable constraints. 

How many Higher Level subjects should I select? 
Students are required to choose three Higher Level (HL) subjects and three Standard Level (SL) subjects. For those considering HL Mathematics and one or two HL science subjects, we strongly recommend selecting an additional HL subject to keep university options open, especially for fields like engineering or medicine, which often require HL Maths, Physics, and/or Chemistry. It’s worth noting that students who start with four HL subjects are typically expected to reduce one to Standard Level (SL) after some time, usually by the end of the first year, to manage the academic workload effectively. 

Can students change subjects after starting the programme? 
Yes, students can change a subject until September 1st of their first year in the Diploma Programme. After this date, subject changes are not permitted.

Are there prerequisites for certain IB subjects? 
Prerequisites vary depending on the level and subject chosen. Higher Level courses, especially in Mathematics and the sciences, require a strong foundation of prior skills and knowledge. For Language A (and/or Literature) and Language B courses, students must demonstrate fluency or near-fluency in the chosen language. Some subjects, such as History or Business Management, do not require prior study, although familiarity with their subject areas may be beneficial. For further clarification or guidance, please contact the Diploma Coordinator, Chris Boerman (cbo@nis-ngg.dk). 

What IB subjects does the school offer, and are there limitations in subject combinations? 
Our school provides a broad selection of IB subjects across all subject groups, allowing students to personalise their learning experience. While we aim to accommodate diverse subject combinations based on students’ interests and goals, certain combinations may not be feasible due to timetable constraints. 

Can a student take all 3 science subjects? 
Typically, students can take up to two science subjects. In exceptional cases, a third science subject may be allowed, though this option should be carefully considered, as it involves a very demanding workload. This option also requires approval from the Diploma Programme Coordinator and IBO, and is generally only given if a student can demonstrate a clear and specific need for three sciences to meet university degree requirements, along with a strong academic track record and exceptional learner attributes. 

Can a student take both Danish and English as first languages? 
Yes, students can take two Language and Literature A courses, which is an excellent option for bilingual or highly proficient students who wish to study literature (and language) in both Danish and English. This choice fulfils the Group 1 (Studies in Language and Literature) requirement and can also satisfy the Group 2 (Language Acquisition) requirement, as one of the Language A courses can replace a Group 2 subject. Additionally, students who complete two Language A courses and achieve a grade of 3 or higher in both will be awarded the bilingual diploma. 

What Danish subject level should I choose to study in Denmark? 
Danish universities recognise Danish Language A (Language or Language and Literature) at Higher Level as equivalent to Dansk A from a Danish gymnasium, ensuring eligibility for any university course in Denmark. In most cases, Danish Language A at Standard Level and Danish Language B at Higher Level are also accepted as proof of sufficient proficiency in Danish for university studies. 

Where can I find information on university requirements? 
University requirements are typically available on official university websites, where you can find detailed information on admission criteria, subject prerequisites, and application procedures. Additionally, resources such as UCAS (for the UK) and Uddannelseguiden (UG) (for Denmark) offer valuable information and admission services. In the coming weeks and months, we will share more resources with families to help guide students in making informed subject choices. 

Are there specific IB courses recommended for certain university programmes (e.g., Medicine, 
Engineering)? 
Certain university programmes have recommended or required IB Diploma Programme subjects. For example, Medicine often requires Higher Level (HL) Biology and Chemistry, while Engineering typically recommends HL Mathematics and Physics. Studying Humanities or Social Sciences in Denmark will require fluency in Danish language and a background in History. Contact Diploma Programme Coordinator, Chris Boerman (cbo@nisngg.dk), if you have any questions. 

SUPPORT 
What academic support is available for struggling students? 
We will continue to offer the pastoral and subject support currently in place at NIS. Each student is assigned a homeroom teacher who provides regular guidance and personal support. Subject teachers are available both during and outside of lessons to offer additional help, explain concepts, and address individual needs. The Diploma Programme Coordinator is also available to offer guidance and oversee academic progress, ensuring students have the resources they need to succeed. If needed, the school may implement tailored interventions and other support measures. We strongly encourage students to communicate openly and seek help early if they encounter challenges in their studies. 

Will parents be informed about their child’s progress regularly? 
Parents will receive regular updates on their child's progress throughout the IB Diploma Programme. This includes parent-teacher consultations held twice a year and report cards issued twice a year. Additionally, homeroom teachers and the Diploma Programme Coordinator are available to discuss specific concerns or provide updates as needed. We value open communication and will always keep parents well-informed to support their child’s learning journey effectively.  

What if a student is struggling to meet the expectations of the IB Diploma Programme? 
If a student is unable to meet the requirements for the full IB Diploma, there are still valuable options available. Students can receive individual IB subject certificates for the courses they successfully complete, along with a transcript of their performance. They also have the opportunity to retake specific exams in future examination sessions to improve their scores and meet the diploma criteria. The school is committed to supporting each student in reaching their potential, even if their path differs from the standard diploma route. We will provide personalised guidance to help students explore their next steps, whether that involves retaking exams, pursuing alternative qualifications, or other opportunities. For students facing significant challenges, a development plan may be created. This plan identifies key areas for improvement, sets clear goals, and provides structured support to help the student get back on track.  

OTHER 
What are the costs associated with the IB Diploma programme at NIS? 
The monthly school fees for Year 12 are DKK 1,615. These fees cover tuition, access to textbooks, other learning materials, and Year 13 exam fees. Please note that the school fees do not include costs for trips or extracurricular activities. 

Contact IB Diploma Programme Coordinator, Chris Boerman (cbo@nis-ngg.dk), if you have any further questions.