<p>But is it absolutely necessary for an american student to have an IB (international baccalaureate) to attend college abroad?</p>
<p>excuse me, but where in the world did you get that impression?</p>
<p>no...they wouldn't need a IB diploma and most don't</p>
<p>Nope. </p>
<p>You DO have to be extremely competitive to be admitted anywhere as an international, so an IB diploma would help you immeasurably, especially since schools around the world are already very familiar with it and know how it compares to the standard curriculum of that country. However, every university will know how to compare an American curriculum to their own, so taking AP classes would help you if you don’t want take the IB route. The most important thing is to take the most rigorous course load you can with the best grades you can get. </p>
<p>You should decide which foreign universities you want to apply to, and then check their admissions sites to see how they consider international (American) students and what they require from them in regards to credentials. Keep in mind that education systems vary greatly between here and there, such as: most universities in the UK require you to apply to a college of the university, not to the university itself, and you are expected to have a good idea of what you want to study. There won’t be a “Study everything for 2 years and choose your fancy” over there. Also, there is very little financial aid given to American students, if any, and I don’t think you will get any from the government to use abroad.</p>
<p>Just as an example, this is what you’d need to use as an American prospective student for Cambridge:
International</a> students</p>
<p>The application process as an international would be difficult, but if it’s what you want, go for it.</p>
<p>Some countries participate in an agreement which allows students who have earned a full IB diploma in other countries to university level studies on an equal basis with students who have completed the equivalent of a HS education in that country. Not every country on the planet participates in this agreement. Even those that officially participate may impose other requirements just because, well, they feel like it.</p>
<p>You need to figure out what country you want to study in, and what degree/major you would like to pursue, and then investigate which universities/institutions of higher learning offer that program. One place to start with would be the Education Attache at the country's consulate.</p>
<p>Wishing you all the best.</p>
<p>Um, no I don't think so. I think that happymom is right...</p>