Calcutta International School (CIS), Kolkata: IB Diploma Programme Guide for UG Admissions.

Calcutta International School (CIS)

Calcutta International School (CIS), Kolkata, is one of India’s oldest and most respected international schools, with a strong legacy in delivering globally recognized curricula. As an authorized IB World School, CIS is well known for its rigorous IB Diploma Programme (IB DP) and its long-standing success in preparing students for competitive undergraduate admissions worldwide.

This blog focuses specifically on Calcutta International School’s IB Diploma Programme, its academic structure, subject offerings, and how CIS supports students aiming for UG admissions in 2026 and beyond.

IB Diploma Programme at CIS: Quick Overview :

Feature	Details
Curriculum Offered	IB Diploma Programme (Grades 11–12)
IB Authorization	Authorized IB World School
Location	Kolkata, West Bengal
School Type	International day school
Average Class Size	Small to moderate
IB DP Focus	Academic rigor + global preparedness
University Destinations	USA, UK, Canada, Europe, Asia
Approx. IB DP Fees	₹6–8 lakhs per year (approx.)

Overview of the IB Diploma Programme at Calcutta International School

The IB Diploma Programme at CIS is designed to provide students with strong academic foundations, international exposure, and university-level readiness. CIS combines IB’s inquiry-based learning philosophy with clear academic structure and assessment discipline, ensuring students are well prepared for both IB exams and undergraduate studies.

The school’s IB DP approach emphasizes:

• Concept-based learning

• Strong academic writing and analysis

• Research and critical thinking skills

• Consistent alignment with IB assessment criteria

This makes CIS a reliable choice for students aiming for top global universities.

IB DP Subject Options at Calcutta International School

Calcutta International School offers a balanced and university-aligned range of IB DP subjects, allowing students to tailor their subject combinations according to intended undergraduate majors.

Common IB DP Subjects Offered:

Group 1 – Studies in Language & Literature

• English A: Language & Literature

Group 2 – Language Acquisition

• French

• Spanish

Group 3 – Individuals & Societies

• Economics

• Business Management

• Psychology

• History

Group 4 – Sciences

• Physics

• Chemistry

• Biology

• Environmental Systems & Societies (ESS)

Group 5 – Mathematics

• Mathematics: Analysis & Approaches

• Mathematics: Applications & Interpretation

Group 6 – Arts / Electives

• Visual Arts

• Or an additional subject from Groups 3 or 4

These subjects support pathways into engineering, medicine, economics, business, social sciences, and liberal arts at the undergraduate level.

Teaching Methodology & Academic Culture

CIS follows a balanced IB teaching approach, combining inquiry-based learning with academic discipline. Faculty members focus on:

• Deep conceptual understanding

• Clear explanation of IB criteria and expectations

• Structured preparation for Internal Assessments (IAs)

• Development of analytical thinking and writing skills

This approach helps students remain consistent and confident throughout the IB Diploma Programme.

TOK, Extended Essay & CAS at CIS

Theory of Knowledge (TOK)

TOK at CIS focuses on:

• Critical thinking and reasoning

• Evaluation of knowledge claims

• Linking academic subjects to real-world contexts

Students develop strong argumentation skills that are valuable for college essays and interviews.

Extended Essay (EE)

The Extended Essay is treated as a serious academic research project. CIS provides:

• Dedicated EE supervisors

• Research guidance and timelines

• Regular feedback and academic mentoring

Many students align their EE topics with intended undergraduate majors, strengthening their applications.

Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)

CAS at CIS emphasizes meaningful, long-term engagement. Activities include:

• Community service initiatives

• Sports and physical activities

• Creative and cultural pursuits

Universities value the depth and reflection demonstrated through CIS students’ CAS portfolios.

University Admissions Outcomes & Global Recognition

IB DP graduates from Calcutta International School have secured admissions to universities across:

• United States – Public and private universities

• United Kingdom – Russell Group institutions

• Canada – Leading research universities

• Europe – Netherlands, Germany, Spain

• Asia-Pacific – Singapore and Australia

Universities recognize CIS students for their academic maturity, global outlook, and strong research skills.

University Counseling & Admissions Guidance

CIS offers structured university counseling support, including:

• Academic pathway planning

• University shortlisting aligned with IB predicted grades

• Support for personal statements and application essays

• Guidance on application timelines and documentation

This ensures students approach undergraduate admissions with clarity and preparedness.

Campus Environment & Student Experience

The CIS campus provides:

• Modern classrooms

• Well-equipped science laboratories

• Sports and recreational facilities

• A culturally diverse and inclusive environment

The school environment supports both academic excellence and personal development.

Who Should Choose Calcutta International School for IB DP?

Calcutta International School is ideal for students who:

• Want a well-established IB DP programme with global recognition

• Prefer a balance of academic rigor and inquiry-based learning

• Are aiming for competitive undergraduate admissions

• Value international exposure within an Indian setting

It is especially suitable for students seeking strong academics combined with global readiness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Does Calcutta International School offer the IB Diploma Programme?

Yes, CIS is an authorized IB World School offering the IB Diploma Programme.

2. Is CIS suitable for undergraduate admissions abroad?

Yes, CIS IB students receive offers from universities worldwide.

3. What IB subjects are offered at CIS?

Sciences, mathematics, humanities, languages, and arts are available.

4. Is CAS compulsory at CIS?

Yes, CAS is a mandatory component of the IB Diploma Programme.

5. Does CIS provide university counseling?

Yes, students receive structured admissions guidance.

6. Is CIS suitable for science and commerce students?

Yes, CIS offers strong science, economics, and business pathways.

7. Are IB results from CIS globally accepted?

Yes, IB results are recognized by universities worldwide.

Final Verdict

Calcutta International School offers a well-rounded, academically strong IB Diploma Programme that prepares students effectively for global undergraduate admissions. Its long-standing reputation, experienced faculty, and consistent outcomes make it one of Kolkata’s top IB DP schools.

Official School Website:

https://calcuttais.edu.in/

International Baccalaureate Organisation (IBO):

https://www.ibo.org