Leander ISD implements one aspects of International Baccalaureate:

  • Diploma Programme for student at the high school level. In LISD, the Diploma Programme (DP) is at Leander High School.

Diploma Programme (DP)

The IB DP is a comprehensive, internationally recognized, two-year advanced academic program that begins in a student’s junior year of high school. This program is offered at Leander High School. It is recommended that students join the IB Programme in the ninth grade. Students can request to transfer to LHS to be part of the programme beginning in the freshman year. The IB DP is recognized and respected by the world’s leading universities because it offers a challenging and comprehensive curriculum that academically prepares students for the rigor of college. Additionally, IB DP students may receive college credit, including at least 24 hours at all Texas public universities for students who achieve the IB Diploma.

How does the IB DP differ from Advanced Placement (AP) courses?

The IB DP and AP are similar in that students are exposed to college-level curriculum and take exams to demonstrate their learning, which may lead to credit at the university level. The IB DP and AP are different in that IB is a whole-curricular program that encompasses six different subject areas as well as a theory of knowledge course, an extended essay, and a creativity, activity, service component. AP is course-specific, each course is independent of any other AP course offered, and AP courses are offered at all LISD high schools.

Where do I find more information about the IB Programme?

Visit the official International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme website, and see the Leander High School IB website  for campus-specific information. Additionally, the IB DP coordinator will visit all LISD middle schools in the winter to offer students more information on the program, and the campus will host an IB Parent Information Night as well. Please contact the DP coordinator for more information: Kate Hauenstein, [email protected].

How do I apply for the IB program at the campus I am zoned to attend?

During the course selection process, students should complete the IB application and choice sheet: LHS IB Application and Choice Sheet.