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Choosing the right academic pathway for your child is one of the most important decisions a family can make. With so many international and private schools in Warsaw offering different curricula - particularly A-Levels and the International Baccalaureate (IB) - it’s natural to ask: which one sets my child up for success in the modern world?
At The British School Warsaw, we proudly offer the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) and believe it prepares students not just for university - but for life. Here’s why.
One of the key differences between the IB and A-Levels is their approach to subject choice.
A-Levels offer depth, with students typically focusing on 3 - 4 subjects. This suits learners with a clear subject strength or career path in mind (e.g., Medicine or Engineering).
The IB, however, balances depth and breadth. Students choose six subjects across disciplines - languages, sciences, humanities, maths, and the arts - ensuring they stay academically well-rounded.
Why this matters: In today’s world, students don’t just need knowledge in one area - they need to make connections across disciplines, collaborate across cultures, and communicate across languages. The IB fosters exactly that. Learn more about how this fits into our Academic Excellence approach.
Both the IB and A-Levels are academically rigorous. But the IB develops skills in a more holistic way.
Through the IB’s core components - Theory of Knowledge (ToK), the Extended Essay (EE), and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) - students learn how to:
Think critically and reflectively
Conduct independent research
Manage long-term projects
Engage with their communities
Explore personal passions and develop resilience
By contrast, A-Levels tend to focus more narrowly on exam performance, with fewer opportunities for independent research or community-based learning.
Both A-Levels and the IB are globally recognised and respected by universities, including Oxbridge, Ivy League schools, and top Polish institutions.
But research shows that IB students are more likely to:
Be accepted into selective universities
Persist and succeed in their first year
Feel prepared for university-level writing and time management
Universities often describe IB students as “ready to hit the ground running.” Explore our IB results and university destinations.
At The British School Warsaw, the IB is about more than academics. It's about character development.
Students grow into:
Independent learners: managing deadlines and projects
Global citizens: developing international awareness and empathy
Adaptable thinkers: comfortable in uncertain or complex situations
While A-Levels focus largely on subject mastery, the IB offers a balanced structure that encourages emotional maturity and confidence - skills that matter in both university and life beyond. Read more about how we prioritise wellbeing.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. A-Levels are a strong option for students with a clear academic focus and preference for exam-based learning.
The IB is ideal for:
Curious, multi-passionate learners
Students who enjoy research, discussion, and real-world application
Families looking for a global education with values embedded in service, inquiry, and growth
Still unsure? At TBS Warsaw, our Pre-IB Programme helps students explore the IB approach and build the skills they’ll need for success.
We don’t just offer the IB - we live it. As an IB World School, our students benefit from:
Expert IB teachers trained by international bodies
World-class facilities including labs, arts spaces, and tech-equipped classrooms
A truly diverse community, with students from over 30 countries
A school culture that values wellbeing, student voice, and global service
Every child is different. That’s why our admissions team is happy to guide you through the decision and help you explore whether the IB at TBS Warsaw is the right fit.
Still comparing? We invite you to come see the IB in action - and meet the students who are shaping their futures, one thoughtful question at a time, book a visit.
We’re delighted to announce yet another year of exceptional results in the IB Diploma Programme. Congratulations to our outstanding Class of 2024 for their remarkable dedication and achievements.
