IBO currently serves more than 750,000 students at 2,749 schools in 138 countries around the world. The organization's programs are offered in schools on all six inhabited continents.
The IB is focused on four major areas: curriculum development, student assessment, teacher training and the authorization and evaluation of schools. The IB seeks to develop internationally minded students capable of critical thinking and engaged in the learning process and service to the community.
IBO is committed to providing academically rigorous educational programs and assessments through its partner schools around the world. An IB diploma is an internationally recognized standard of academic excellence. In America, many high schools are beginning to offer IB classes as an alternative or equivalent to Advanced Placement classes.
The IB provides a continuum of education for students from pre-kindergarten to high school, comprising three programs. The Primary Years Program (ages 3-12) began in 1997. The Middle Years Program (ages 11-16) began in 1994. The Diploma Program (ages 16-19) began in 1968 and is currently offered in more than 2,000 schools worldwide.
IBO is a nonprofit foundation registered in Geneva, Switzerland. It is governed by a 17-member elected board of directors, led by a director general appointed by the board. The board of directors oversees financial and policy decisions for the organization, develops strategy and maintains IB educational standards.