The World's Most Respected
Pre-University Qualification.
The IB Diploma is demanding, balanced and globally recognised. At GL Academy in Kuala Lumpur, we coach students through all six subject groups, Theory of Knowledge, the Extended Essay and CAS — building the depth, breadth and study skills the IBDP rewards.
One Diploma. Six Subjects. Three Core Components.
The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) is a two-year course for students aged 16–19. Instead of specialising early, IB students study a broad, balanced curriculum — one subject from each of six groups — alongside three compulsory "core" components that develop independent thinking, research and personal growth.
subjects, one from each group — three at Higher Level and three at Standard Level.
grade for every subject. Six subjects give up to 42 points.
bonus points from Theory of Knowledge and the Extended Essay — making 45 the maximum.
points is the minimum to be awarded the full Diploma.
Choose One Subject From Each Group
Click any group to see the subjects we coach, and how Higher Level differs from Standard Level.
The Same Subjects, Two Depths.
Every student takes three subjects at Higher Level (HL) and three at Standard Level (SL). HL goes deeper and wider — and universities often ask for specific HL subjects.
Higher Level (HL)
≈ 240 teaching hours
- Greater depth and additional topics beyond the SL core
- More demanding exam papers and internal assessment
- The subjects you intend to study at university
- Three HL subjects are required (some students take four)
Standard Level (SL)
≈ 150 teaching hours
- The essential core of the subject, taught rigorously
- Keeps your curriculum broad and balanced
- Ideal for supporting subjects outside your main field
- Three SL subjects complete the diploma
The Three Core Components
What truly sets the IB apart sits at the centre of the programme. Every IB student completes all three. Click each to see what it involves.
Theory of Knowledge and the Extended Essay together contribute up to 3 bonus points. CAS is not graded — but the Diploma cannot be awarded without it.
IB Coaching Built Around the Whole Diploma
The IB rewards consistency across two intense years. We support every part of it — not just the exams.
Subject Specialists
Tutors experienced with IB subjects at both HL and SL, from international-school backgrounds.
Extended Essay & TOK Support
Structured guidance on research questions, essay structure and the TOK essay and exhibition.
Internal Assessment Coaching
Help planning and refining the IAs that count toward your final grade in every subject.
Exam Technique
Past-paper practice, mark-scheme training and time management for Paper 1, 2 and 3.
Aiming High in the IB Diploma?
Tell us your subjects and your target score. We'll build a coaching plan around your Higher Levels, your core components and your university goals.
Studies in Language & Literature
Taught in your strongest language — usually English A. You read and analyse literary and non-literary texts, developing the sophisticated written and oral analysis universities expect.
Subjects we coach
- English A: Language & Literature
- English A: Literature
- School-supported self-taught languages
HL vs SL
- HL: more texts, deeper comparative analysis, an extra written essay
- SL: fewer texts, the same core skills
Language Acquisition
A second language, building real communicative ability and cultural understanding. Offered at different entry points depending on your prior experience.
Subjects we coach
- English B
- French, Spanish & Mandarin (B / ab initio)
- Other languages on request
HL vs SL
- HL: two literary works and richer texts
- SL / ab initio: for newer learners of the language
Individuals & Societies
The study of people, institutions and ideas. These subjects build the evaluative essay-writing and source analysis prized by law, business and social-science degrees.
Subjects we coach
- Economics
- Business Management
- History
- Psychology
- Geography
HL vs SL
- HL: extra units and a higher-weighted exam paper
- SL: the core syllabus and internal assessment
Sciences
Experimental sciences combining theory with practical investigation. Essential Higher Levels for medicine, engineering and the natural sciences.
Subjects we coach
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Computer Science
HL vs SL
- HL: additional higher-level topics and a tougher Paper 3
- SL: full conceptual core and the practical scheme
Mathematics
Every IB student studies Mathematics, choosing the route that fits their strengths and degree plans.
Two routes
- Analysis & Approaches — for calculus-heavy, theoretical paths (engineering, maths, physics)
- Applications & Interpretation — for modelling, statistics and real-world data
HL vs SL
- HL: demanding — often required for STEM degrees
- SL: a solid grounding for most courses
The Arts
A creative subject — or the flexibility to take a second subject from Groups 1–4 instead, letting science- or humanities-focused students tailor their diploma.
Options
- Visual Arts
- Music
- Theatre
- Film
- Or a second Group 1–4 subject
HL vs SL
- HL: a larger body of work and exhibition
- SL: a focused portfolio
Theory of Knowledge
TOK asks the question behind every subject: how do we know what we know? Over roughly 100 hours, students examine how knowledge is built across disciplines — and reflect critically on their own perspectives.
What it involves
- Exploring knowledge questions across areas of knowledge
- Discussion-based lessons, not exams
- A 1,600-word essay on a prescribed title
- The TOK exhibition of three real-world objects
Why it matters
- Develops genuine critical thinking
- Contributes (with the EE) up to 3 bonus points
- Ties your whole diploma together
The Extended Essay
An independent, self-directed piece of research of up to 4,000 words on a topic of the student's choice, usually within one of their subjects. It is the closest thing to undergraduate research at school level.
What it involves
- Choosing a focused research question
- Around 40 hours of independent work
- Guidance from a supervisor
- A reflection process on the research journey
Why it matters
- Builds research and academic-writing skills
- Contributes (with TOK) up to 3 bonus points
- Strengthens university applications
Creativity, Activity, Service
CAS keeps the IB human. Across the two years, students engage in experiences beyond academics — exploring creativity, staying physically active, and serving their community.
The three strands
- Creativity — arts and creative thinking
- Activity — physical exertion and a healthy lifestyle
- Service — meaningful contribution to others
Good to know
- Not graded — but required to pass
- Includes a longer CAS project
- Develops initiative, teamwork and reflection
