International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme to be introduced at YSU

On November 25, 2025, YSU was granted IB Candidate School status and began working toward full program implementation and official authorization. 

The initiative aims to expand opportunities for students in Armenia to pursue education in line with international educational approaches.

Education that teaches students not only what to know, but how to think

One of the key challenges of modern education is not simply imparting knowledge, but also teaching students how to apply it independently.

How can students distinguish facts from opinions, assess the reliability of information, compare opposing viewpoints or apply knowledge to solve real-world problems? These questions are central to the International Baccalaureate's educational approach.

The Diploma Programme is an internationally recognized two-year pre-university program. It encourages students to formulate questions, explore different approaches, support their own arguments and take responsibility for their learning.

The program aims to develop young people with a strong academic foundation who can think independently, conduct research, communicate effectively and collaborate across different cultural settings.

What the IB Diploma Programme includes

The program is structured around six subject groups, combining broad-based knowledge with in-depth study in selected fields. These groups cover studies in language and literature, language acquisition, individuals and societies, sciences, mathematics and the arts.

Students study their selected subjects at one of two levels:

• Higher Level (HL): in-depth study of selected subjects.

• Standard Level (SL): development of foundational subject knowledge and relevant skills.

  This structure allows students to combine different disciplines and develop both their academic interests and interdisciplinary thinking throughout their studies.

Three components that set the program apart

At the core of the IB Diploma Programme are three mandatory components that complement subject-based learning.

Theory of Knowledge (TOK)

How do we know what we know?

This component enables students to explore how knowledge is developed, justified and evaluated. They learn to examine information critically, compare different perspectives and understand how scientific and social perceptions are shaped.

Extended Essay (EE)

Students conduct independent academic research by selecting a topic, formulating a research question, examining sources and presenting well-supported conclusions.

This assignment develops research, information analysis and academic writing skills, preparing students for university-level research.

Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)

Education extends beyond classroom learning.

Through this component, students engage in creative work, physical activity and community service initiatives, developing initiative, collaboration skills and a sense of responsibility.

It provides opportunities to turn ideas into practical initiatives and gain firsthand experience of the importance of work that contributes to community development.

National identity and international-mindedness

International education does not mean distancing oneself from national identity. On the contrary, knowing and valuing one's own culture can provide a foundation for understanding and engaging in dialogue with other cultures.

YSU emphasizes integrating Armenia's academic and cultural environment with international educational experience. This approach enables students to explore their own cultural heritage, discover the world's diversity, respect different perspectives and collaborate effectively in international settings.

YSU's path toward new opportunities in international education

Introducing the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme is part of YSU's broader efforts to advance educational development and internationalization.

The university aims to foster an educational environment in which subject knowledge is combined with research-oriented thinking, independent learning and social responsibility.

Following its designation as a Candidate School, YSU continues working to meet the International Baccalaureate Organization authorization requirements.

On the path toward international education, acquiring new knowledge goes hand in hand with developing the ability to think, conduct research, collaborate and make responsible decisions.

Status information

Yerevan State University is a Candidate School for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme and is undergoing the authorization process to become an IB World School.

Only schools authorized by the International Baccalaureate Organization may offer IB programs.