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Student at International School of Schaffhausen
International university access and international friends

Three core requirements

In addition to the completion of courses, coursework and examinations in the subject groups, the IB Diploma Programme also emphasizes personal, emotional and social growth. Three core requirements challenge students to apply their knowledge, to prepare for academic studies, and to broaden their understanding of life.  All three parts of the core are compulsory and central to the philosophy of the Diploma Programme.

  • Extended essay

The extended essay has a prescribed limit of 4,000 words. It offers students the opportunity to investigate a topic of individual interest, and acquaints students with the independent research and writing skills expected at university.

  • Theory of knowledge (TOK)

The interdisciplinary TOK course is designed to provide coherence by exploring the nature of knowledge across disciplines, encouraging an appreciation of other cultural perspectives.

  • Creativity, action, service (CAS)

Participation in the school’s CAS programme encourages students to be involved in artistic pursuits, sports and community service work, thus fostering students’ awareness and appreciation of life outside the academic arena.