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March 22, 2023CPS IB High Schools
Several CPS high schools offer International Baccalaureate (IB) programs. Although the admissions process is competitive, it is less so than for Selective Enrollment High Schools. IB options vary from school to school, and CPS doesn’t provide a clear explanation in one spot. We’ve gathered details here, and we’re happy to answer additional questions to help you make the best decision for your child!
What is the International Baccalaureate?
Schools around the world use the International Baccalaureate education model. It encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and independence in the interest of creating “a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect.” In addition, students connect their classwork to the real world, and concepts are studied through thematic units across subjects. Students in IB programs may earn college credit.
What IB programs are offered at CPS high schools?
CPS IB high schools offer one, two, or three options: Middle Years Programme, Diploma Programme, Career-related Programme. Some schools, like Lincoln Park and Senn, are wall-to-wall IB high schools. This means that CPS enrolls all ninth and tenth graders in IB’s Middle Years Programme and groups students by academic level. Students wishing to earn an IB diploma at any CPS IB high school must gain admission to the Diploma Programme.
Please note that students who want to enroll in Lincoln Park’s Advanced College Prep program (formerly known as Double Honors) who do not live in the attendance area must also complete the admissions process (applicants who live in the attendance area are admitted automatically).
How are admissions decisions made for CPS high school IB programs?
Similar to the Selective Enrollment High School admissions process, CPS uses a points system for admissions to its IB high schools. Because not all schools have the same requirements, we strongly encourage you to talk with school staff to get the most accurate and up-to-date information!
Students will be scored on a 640-point scale (this is new in 2026, different from the previous 900-point scale):
- Up to 320 points for their final 7th grade GPA in core subjects
- Up to 320 points for the high school admissions test (taken in 8th grade; new test in 2026: PreACT 9 Secure)
- Students who live within the geographical boundaries of the school they’re applying to will be given 35 bonus points
Because of the new test and points system, we’re not sure what the cutoff scores will be.
