Complete the most challenging curriculum available in middle school. Some school districts offer the Middle Years Program, to prepare potential IB program candidates and it requires application in the fifth grade. Schools without a Middle Years Program require honors courses or the equivalent during grades six, seven and eight for a competitive IB application in the eighth grade.
Inform your guidance counselor of your interest in applying to the IB program no later than the fall of eighth grade. The IB application is involved and you'll benefit from the additional direction of your guidance counselor who is familiar with the specific policies of your school.
Earn above average grades in a challenging middle school curriculum. Some schools require at least a B average in core classes, while others require at least a C+. Speak with your guidance counselor to determine the grade requirements at your school.
Score well on the required testing. Some schools require that all IB applicants complete the High School Placement Test, while other schools use the results from your most recent state testing. Pay attention to dates because many non-state tests are only offered twice a year.
Obtain the specified letters of recommendation from teachers. Some schools require a recommendation from each of the core academic subjects, while others require only two or three recommendations from your choice of core academic teachers.
Complete the IB application. The IB application requires basic contact information along with writing samples. The writing samples are essay questions about why you want to enter the IB program and the nature of your ambitions outside the classroom.
Complete the interview if necessary. Some, but not all, schools require IB applicants to interview before selection. The selection panel for the IB program typically uses the interview to asses the student's maturity and motivation.
Confirm your acceptance by mail. Your school requires confirmation of your acceptance to the IB program shortly after receiving notification. Follow details in the acceptance packet regarding course registration and shadowing.