International Baccalaureate
Welcome to the IB Diploma Programme at Arendal vgs
Arendal videregående skole has proudly offered the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP) since 2006. Over 18 cohorts of students have completed the programme and taken their final exams, with graduates continuing their studies at universities in Norway and around the world.
The IB DP is a challenging and internationally recognized two-year academic programme for students aged 16–19. It promotes critical thinking, intercultural understanding, and academic excellence, preparing students for success in higher education and beyond.
What is the IB Diploma Programme?
The IB DP is designed for motivated students who seek a broad and balanced education. The programme is taught in English and consists of six subject groups and three core components:
Core Components
- Theory of Knowledge (TOK): Develops critical thinking about knowledge itself.
- Extended Essay (EE): Independent research project of up to 4,000 words.
- Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS): Encourages personal growth through extracurricular engagement.
Subject Groups
Students choose one subject from each of the following groups:
- Studies in Language and Literature
• English A
• Norwegian A - Language Acquisition
• Norwegian B - Individuals and Societies
• History
• Psychology
• Global Politics - Sciences
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Physics - Mathematics
• Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches
• Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation - The Arts
• Visual Arts
At Arendal vgs, Group 6 is offered as Visual Arts. However, the course is subject to teacher availability and student interest. If Visual Arts is not offered in a given year, students may instead choose an additional subject from Group 3 (e.g., Global Politics) or Group 4 (e.g., a second science).
Who Can Apply?
Students who have completed VG1 or equivalent and are ready for an academic challenge are welcome to apply. A good academic record and English proficiency are important for success in the programme.
Students from Arendal International School (AiS) can also begin the IB Diploma Programme directly at Arendal vgs. This provides a seamless transition for AiS students who wish to continue their international education in the IB system.
How to Apply
Students must complete two applications:
- School application form – available on the https://arendal.vgs.no/utdanningstilbud/international-baccalaureate/
- Official application via VIGO – https://www.vigo.no
The application period opens in spring. We also host an annual information evening for prospective students and parents.
Life as an IB Student
IB students at Arendal vgs benefit from:
- A supportive and inclusive learning environment
- Experienced and dedicated IB teachers
- Language support for non-native English speakers
- A wide range of CAS activities, including local and international projects
- Access to modern facilities and a vibrant student community
University Recognition
The IB Diploma is recognized by universities worldwide. Our graduates have gone on to study at institutions such as:
- Universitetet i Oslo
- NTNU
- University of Edinburgh
- University of British Columbia
- Leiden University
The diploma is also accepted by Norwegian universities through the Samordna Opptak system.
Useful Link
Contact Us
For more information or guidance, please contact:
IB DP Coordinator
Raïna Brunvatne
📧 raina.brunvatne@arendal.vgs.no
📱 +47 473 13 716
Head of IB
Matias Langgaard Madsen
📧 matias.langgaard.madsen@arendal.vgs.no
📱 +47 411 90 567