Transferring to Diploma Programme

Programme at a glace

International education for havo-vwo students

Step out into the world and meet your full potential at International School Groningen, where we offer a unique opportunity for Dutch havo-vwo students. Join our International Baccalaureate® Diploma Programme (DP), for students ages 16-18 entering their vwo years.

Complete your school education in the English language, as part of this prestigious and internationally recognised 2-year pre-university programme. Study alongside international students in our green campus in Haren and gain an inspiring global outlook. Most importantly, graduating from DP will give you access to universities around the world!

Who can apply?

Students with a havo-diploma or a certificate of promotion to year 5 in a vwo-school, who can prove that they are sufficiently fluent in English according to ISG’s criteria. Placement tests will be necessary to ensure potential students are ready for a future in the IB Diploma Programme.

Benefits of international education

Dream big to unlock the world

An international education at ISG offers a wealth of benefits that equip you for success in a globalised world:

Strengthen your language skills - Develop greater fluency in English, opening doors to academic and professional opportunities both in and outside of the Netherlands.
Broadened worldview and intercultural awareness - By transferring to the Diploma Programme, you foster an appreciation for diverse perspectives and experiences. This builds empathy and curiosity, essential for navigating an interconnected world.
Enhanced communication and critical thinking - Interact with people from varied backgrounds, refining your communication and collaboration skills.
Global network and prospects - Build a network of international peers, leading to future collaborations.
Personal growth and self-discovery - Challenge yourself in a new environment, enjoy the supportive and intimate atmosphere at ISG, and move closer towards your dreams.
Graduates unlock the world – Graduates of the DP gain access to universities around the world.

You belong with us

International School Groningen welcomes you to visit our school, meet with staff, and speak with like-minded students who have chosen to transfer from vwo to the IB Diploma Programme. You will find that ISG is:

The small school for big dreams

It will soon feel familiar, and you’ll make friends instantly

Where teachers care about you

We always support each other and treat others with kindness

A green and peaceful campus

In Haren, just 20-minutes by bicycle to the centre of Groningen

Your path to greatness

Prepare for university, your career, and beyond!

Curriculum

Interdisciplinary learning and skills

The Diploma Programme curriculum covers the following subject groups, alongside DP Core:

Group 1

Language and literature
Students take their studies in a language in which they are academically competent. The course introduces the critical study and interpretation of written and spoken texts from a wide range of literary forms and non-literary text-types.

Group 2

Language acquisition (French, Dutch, English)
The modern language courses emphasise the acquisition and use of language in a range of contexts and for different purposes while, at the same time, promoting an understanding of another culture through the study of its language.

Group 3

Economics, Global Politics and History
Through subject specific content these courses foster critical appreciation of: human experience and behaviour, the varieties of physical, economic and social environments that people inhabit, and the history of social and cultural institutions.

Group 4

Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Environmental Systems and Societies*
Students explore the concepts, theories, models and techniques that underpin each subject area and through these develop their understanding of the scientific method. A compulsory project encourages students to appreciate the environmental, social, and ethical implications of science.
* ES&S is also included as a group 3 subject.

Group 5

Mathematics
- Analysis and approaches recognises the need for analytical expertise in a world where innovation is increasingly dependent on a deep understanding of mathematics.
- Application and interpretation recognises the increasing role that mathematics and technology play in a diverse range of fields in a data-rich world.

Group 6

Visual Art
Encouraging students to challenge their own creative and cultural expectations and boundaries. It is a thought-provoking course in which students develop analytical skills in problem-solving and divergent thinking, while working towards technical proficiency and confidence as art-makers.

DP Core

The core is made up of three required components, which aim to broaden students’ educational experience and challenge them to apply their knowledge and skills.
The three core components are: Theory of knowledge; the extended essay; and creativity, activity, service.

The IB learner profile

The Diploma Programme is designed to foster students who embody the IB learner profile. These characteristics include curiosity and a love of learning, a strong knowledge base, critical and creative thinking skills, effective communication abilities, strong principles and a sense of fairness, openness to new ideas and perspectives, compassion and care for others, a willingness to take calculated risks, a balanced approach to life that considers intellectual, physical, and emotional well-being, and a capacity for self-reflection.

Arjan Student

"I’ve always wanted to study in English, to open new doors and prepare me for university. The supportive atmosphere has made my transition into DP surprisingly smooth.”