IB Students
IB Students Excel Here
We know you are going places, and the University of Alberta is going to get you there. As a top-tier research-based institution, we provide the kind of academically-focused environment in which International Baccalaureate (IB) students can thrive.
But you don't have to take our word for it. Hear from one of our current U of A students who participated in the IB program!
A+ Rewards for an A+ Student
You did the work — taking IB has its perks! We recognize your achievements in taking an academically rigorous program, and we want to see you continue your studies here.
Advanced Standing
If you achieve a final IB grade of 6 or higher, you can receive advanced standing and bypass certain courses by one of the following means:
- Transfer Credit: Receive university‑level transfer credit for IB work completed in high school. This means you will have the option not to take that course in university.
- Advanced Placement: Register in a senior-level course without taking the junior-level course first.
- Credit by Special Assessment (CSA): Enables you to challenge a university course for credit by writing a special exam. Administered by our faculties directly.
Ready for Research
Many IB students like to dive into research opportunities — even while still in high school. The Festival of Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities (FURCA) invites IB students to present their research, receive constructive feedback and network with current U of A students who are involved in exciting research across all disciplines.
Start with a Scholarship
The U of A administers over $46 million in undergraduate financial support every year. Historically, more than half of eligible IB students receive a scholarship offer. Learn more and view all entrance awards at uab.ca/awards.
- Enriched Scholar Scholarship: As an IB student, you may be eligible to receive up to $5,000 as recognition for your achievements in an academically rigorous program.
Admission for IB Students
Dual-Admission Advantage
If you are completing IB exams in conjunction with your high school curriculum, we will use the higher of either your IB score or high school grade for admission. For example, if you present both IB English and English 30-1, we will use the higher of the two English grades when calculating your admission average required for your program. You are not at a disadvantage for choosing to write an IB exam!
IB Grade Conversion Scale
To calculate an admission average using IB results, we will convert your scores into percentages as follows:
| IB Result | IB Equivalent |
| 7 | 98% |
| 6 | 90% |
| 5 | 82% |
| 4 | 73% |
| 3 | 55% |
| 2 or 1 | Not accepted for admission |
Alberta High School Equivalences
See the IB Equivalency Chart for more information on which IB high school courses may be used on your application.
Admission for Diploma Candidates
The U of A offers full IB Diploma candidates admission, based on predicted grades, to all direct-entry faculties.
To be considered for admission through this process, you need to:
- Apply to the University of Alberta.
- Present six IB courses (five of which need to be the required subjects for your program).
- Present a competitive diploma score with no grade less than 4. Previous competitive scores range from 30-37 points depending on your program.
- Have your IB Coordinator submit a Predicted Grades Form between March 1 and April 30.
IB Transcripts
All IB students are required to submit a final and official IB transcript by August 1. Ask your IB Coordinator to request your transcript be sent directly to the U of A, or contact IB.