Diploma Programme

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme is a challenging two-year curriculum for students in Years 11 and 12. It is respected by leading universities across the world and develops students who have excellent breadth and depth of knowledge — students who flourish physically, intellectually, emotionally and ethically.

At Al Zahra College, the Diploma Programme is delivered within a strong Islamic framework, so that academic rigour and faith formation reinforce one another. Our senior students are supported by specialist teachers, structured study programs and individual guidance on university pathways.

Six subject groups

Diploma students study six subjects — three at higher level and three at standard level — chosen from the following groups:

• Studies in Language and Literature: English Language and Literature
• Language Acquisition: Arabic
• Individuals and Societies: Business Management, History
• Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Computer Science
• Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches, Applications and Interpretation
• The Arts: Visual Arts (or a second subject from groups 1–5)

The DP core

Alongside their six subjects, all Diploma students complete the three core elements that make the IB distinctive: the Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge, and Creativity, Activity, Service. Together they broaden students' educational experience and challenge them to apply their knowledge and skills in new contexts.

University recognition

The IB Diploma is accepted by Australian universities through a conversion to an ATAR-equivalent selection rank, and is recognised directly by universities in the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Europe and the Middle East. Students graduate with a qualification that travels with them wherever they choose to study.