UAE beats global average of IB Diploma

Dubai - Beating the global average of 29.62, the students scored an impressive 32.26.

Students in the UAE have beaten the global average of this year's International Baccalaureate (IB) score, with some securing a perfect 45. A total of 2,007 students from 38 schools in the country received their IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) and Career-related Programme (IBCP) results on Saturday.
Beating the global average of 29.62, the students scored an impressive 32.26.
Two students from the GEMS Modern Academy and GEMS Wellington International School achieved full marks, which put them in the top performing one per cent across the world.
Adiba Ejaz, an Indian pupil from GEMS Modern Academy, was thrilled to see her perfect score of 45. She will be heading to Columbia University this fall. "I went into the IBDP largely uncertain as to how I would receive it, but that's what made it all the more exciting. It's a unique educational programme in the sense that your final grade isn't just determined by year-end exams, but also the rigorous coursework you do through the two years. I think that demands a new level of critical thinking and academic intensity.
"The exams require you to apply what you've already learned in unseen and sometimes bizarre contexts, which often elicit a nervous chuckle or two. I found that the key to dealing with the pressure was to be calm and confident, and remind yourself to continue doing the things you enjoy - in moderation, of course. The past two years have culminated in a degree of personal and intellectual growth I'd never have expected, and getting a 45 is just the cherry on top."
Anuja Venkatarmani, an Indian pupil at GEMS Wellington International School, also secured a perfect score of 45. She'll be going to Durham University.
"I was very shocked about the result because I didn't expect it. Time management and making sure I was motivated throughout the two years were the most difficult things to prepare for these exams. One of the main things that kept me motivated was that I enjoyed the subjects I picked. Time management is just something you pick up along the way."
Over at the Repton School Dubai, 100 per cent of their 61 students passed the IBDP, with 90 per cent who scored above 30 points. Two of their pupils scored 43 points.
At the Uptown School Dubai, the highest scored attained by a student was a 43. Five students got a score higher than 40 and four others scored 35 or higher.
At the Raha International School, 63 per cent of the students achieves 30 points or higher and the highest score was 44.
A Malaysian student at Taaleem's Greenfield Community School, Pavetra Logamoorthy, received a score of 39. She said: "I did standard level subjects in biology, math studies and French and higher level subjects in history, visual arts and English."
She advised students to manage their time well and do a bit of work from each subject every day. "This will ensure that the understanding of your subjects is reinforced on a regular basis. I will be pursuing a degree in fashion marketing at the University of the Arts London this September."
Dr Siva Kumari, IB's director-general, said: "Higher education institutions and employers alike are telling us we need young people who can collaborate, communicate and think critically while creating new knowledge. Research suggests that an IB diploma prepares students with these skills. Our alumni are addressing the challenges humanity faces with open-minds and creativity. I wish this year's graduates all the best for the future and for making our world better."
sarwat@khaleejtimes.com