The VIS High School Diploma is an alternative option for graduation, offering students an additional (but less rigorous) pathway to a university education. The number of credits earned as a result of the VIS Diploma is equivalent to an American High School Diploma graduate. All courses studied from Grade 9 onwards count towards the VIS HS Diploma. Where students transfer to VIS at a later stage (i.e. after the first term of Grade 9) their previous records are considered towards their VIS HS Diploma as per the school’s credit system found on page 27.

The VIS HS Diploma is awarded to students at the end of Grade 12, subject to them meeting the credit and attendance requirements. Credits are awarded for each term of study, according to the following system:

• Grade 9 -10 MYP courses: A minimum of a 3 on the Term Report

• Grade 11-12 courses: A minimum of a 3 on the Term Report (‘On Track’ or higher in the case of the EE/RF, “Developing” or higher in the case of TOK/LD/PPS, ‘Merit’ or higher for BTEC on Term Report)

Credits are awarded to students who achieve the minimum level of performance required. This can be found on page 28.

Grade 11 and Grade 12 students on the VIS Diploma Pathway have the option to take a minimum of 3 and a maximum of 6 IBDP courses at either Standard or Higher Level. The 3 required courses are English A/English B, one subject from Individuals & Societies, and a Mathematics subject; to be eligible to graduate. Students who did not achieve minimum Science credits in Grade 9/Grade 10 will be required to take an IBDP Science subject in Grade 11/Grade 12. 

Starting in September 2026, VIS Diploma Pathway students also have the option to undertake a BTEC International Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Enterprise and Entrepreneurship. On its own, this Pearson qualification is equivalent to one A-level. The BTEC Enterprise and Entrepreneurship course will run as long as a viable number of students choose this subject as part of their course load.

Students take written examinations at the end of the programme, which are marked by external IB examiners. Students also complete assessment tasks in the school, which are either initially marked by teachers and then moderated by external moderators or sent directly to external examiners.

Assessment is criterion-related, which means student performance is measured against pre-specified assessment criteria based on the aims and objectives of each subject curriculum, rather than the performance of other students taking the same examinations. Statistically, the range of scores that students have attained has remained stable and universities value the rigour and consistency of Diploma Programme assessment practice.

In addition to completing classroom assessments, VIS Diploma Pathway students complete the Senior Essay and Creativity Action Service (CAS) as a part of their graduation requirements, along with a mandated Study Period. 

Considerations for University

• The VIS HS Diploma is accepted worldwide, with exceptions. Programs accepting the HS Diploma may require IBDP certificates, SAT, or other exams for entrance.

• Students should take a minimum of 3-4 IB Certificates (mostly HL) to meet university entrance requirements. Some universities/countries may not accept IBDP certificates with the US HS Diploma, and students may need to take separate external exams to meet requirements.

• Students may require additional exams (e.g., SAT).

• Students must check up-to-date admissions requirements with the university/program directly.

For more detailed information about the VIS Diploma offered at VIS, speak directly with the High School Principal.