GWHS IB Diploma Program

How to Be Considered for GW's IB Program

Updated on January 18, 2012

GW IB Request for Consideration (PDF), September 8, 2011   

Quick Guide to Requesting Consideration by the GW IB Program (PDF), September 8, 2011

IB Shadowing for 2012-2013 Freshman

All of GWIB shadowing opportunities have been filled. Shadowing after January 31 is not available next year--January 31 is the DPS SchoolChoice deadline.

Attention Parents of Current 8th-Grade Students

Is your student enrolling in the GWIB program for the 2012-2013 school year? And, is George Washington NOT your neighborhood school? Then you must turn in a completed SchoolChoice application by January 31, 2012.

This is an absolute deadline. All questions about this process should be directed to the Office of Choice and Enrollment Services.

Key Dates

GWIB Informational Flier (PDF)

Class of 2011 College Choices (PDF) | Class of 2010 College Choices (PDF)

Class of 2009 College Choices (PDF) | Class of 2008 College Choices (PDF)

GWIB Alumni College Choices - 1988-2007 (PDF)

GWHS IB Curriculum (PDF), posted September 2, 2010

Read about IB in the Fall 2008 issue of the Colorado Parent Education Guide

Application and Selection Process

Over twenty years of experience has given us ample evidence for determining a student's potential for success in GW's IB program. While demonstrated empirical evidence of previous achievement is statistically the best predictor, 'whole child" scrutiny is important as well. The following are the criteria used to determine admission to George Washington's Diploma Programme.

Test Scores

• Advanced scores on the most recent CSAP 's writing, reading and mathematics
• Top stanine scores on another National or State Assessment, (e.g., ERBs, ICEE, SATs)

Performance Record

A student’s middle school report card should be mostly A’s and B’s. Students with a poor GPA may not be considered. Grades indicate a student’s consistency of effort, executive skills, and tolerance of differing demands. Exemplary attendance is also vital.

Teacher Evaluations

Students should request evaluations from three academic teachers. One evaluation should be a teacher of English or language arts. We respect the anecdotal evidence provided by the teachers solicited to this task. We expect comments regarding both learning and motivational qualities. While any grade level teacher may write an evaluation, the current teacher's comments are most relevant.

Writing Sample

We wish to see an example of the applicant's writing in a class assignment. Please submit a sample of 150 words or less, preferably a piece of a prose composition.

The Interview

We understand how difficult an adult interview can be on a young person with little experience in speaking about him/herself. We love to talk to students who are full of questions and energy, but have plenty of experience with the more introverted person as well. However, first impressions are undeniably important, so we expect the student to arrive with that positive impression in mind. The parents are expected to sit in on the interview and are encouraged to help their student feel at ease and to ask questions.

Necessary paperwork will be completed at the interview, including: registration forms, Academic program forms including a choice of foreign language and an elective, and the signing of an ethical practice policy.

Math Background

Students outside of the US system learn formal algebra as part of their primary education. IB mathematics in grades 11 and 12 assumes an international standard of advanced mathematics skills. Therefore, students entering grade 9 at minimum, must have studied algebra before high school. Students entering grade 10 must have studied algebra and plane geometry. Students accepted into the IB program at GW will be given a placement exam in the spring before enrollment to assure their best progress through the IB math curriculum.

Summary of Admission Criteria

• Proficient or higher CSAP scores
• B+ GPA
• Three positive teacher evaluations. 3 positive teacher evaluations (one teacher should be Language arts or English)
• A completed questionnaire
• An interview
• Algebra competency