<p>Yeah, I would say do Full IB because top colleges want the most rigorous curriculum. If you're doing partial, then you aren't doing the most rigorous. . .it's as simple as that. </p>
<p>And I'm fairly positive you can't do 5 HLs. 4 is the max.</p>
<p>Check this out:
"Jimm Crowder - Director of Admissions - Macalester:
"Students seeking the finest high school preparation available for an American college should consider the International Baccalaureate . . . I do not know of a more comprehensive and appropriate learning model.</p>
<p>Fred Hargadon, Director of Admissions, Princeton:
"IB is a first-rate programme, one we are familiar with, and it prepares students for a university like ours."</p>
<p>Marilee Jones, Director of Undergraduate Admissions, MIT:
"Send us prepared students a la IB . . . It is the 'best' high school prep curriculum an American school can offer."</p>
<p>Christoph Guttentag, Director of Undergraduate Admissions, Duke:
"One of the advantages of an IB curriculum is its structure and quality. It is a coordinated programme, well established, well-known, and well respected. We know the quality of IB courses, and we think the IB curriculum is terrific." </p>
<p>From this site:<a href="http://www.north.springfield-city.k12.oh.us/ibfaq.htm%5B/url%5D">http://www.north.springfield-city.k12.oh.us/ibfaq.htm</a></p>
<p>It is a great curriculum...but the stress on the kids is incredible. Especially in the final year when they are applying to universities. That said, and I will be so glad to have it all over in 3 1/2 months time as a parent, I am glad my son chose the program. He has really learned to take charge of his studies and it hasn't been easy. Better yet, he has become extremely curious about learning in general, and he reads for pleasure..... Maybe it is his age, but I do credit the program as well.The theory of knowledge course that the rest of the program spins off of gave him tools to critically evaluate information. He is collected and seems balanced in his mind when discussing various points of view.</p>
<p>There are several concurrent threads on IB right now. I'm a fan, but won't repeat what I've written on the Parents board.</p>
<p>Northstarmom, I don't doubt your accuracy, but I'm really surprised that the IB would allow Florida to give kids a second chance at the exams. From what I've been told these exams are final and non-negotiable (except in that the grade can be appealed to headquarters). Any one else's school allow retakes?</p>
<p>I'm also very pleased to see the reactions from the colleges that you've posted. When my son was applying two years ago, we found that some schools were very supportive, some apathetic.</p>
<p>overseas, yes, for kids applying to US schools the timing of the Extended Essay couldn't be worse. I second your comments on the value of the program and can add that for my son honing these skills has really paid off for him in college.</p>