In the 2020 – 2021 school year, WASS will begin implementing the Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE), American Diploma Program  (ADP) and The International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IDBP). Providing a variety of curricula will give students many choices, as well as various career directions in the future.

However, in order to select the appropriate route, parents and students need to understand each program and the information below which will help parents and students get an overview of the three programs: WACE, ADP, IBDP.

Pathway 1: Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE)

Students who successfully completed the Western Australia’s general education program will receive a WACE certificate, awarded by the Academic Council, on behalf of the Western Australian state government. This qualification is internationally recognised and will allow students to study at some of the world’s top universities, including universities belonging to the Ivy group in the US and UK.

Students will generally complete the WACE program in the last two years of high school, with no specific time limits. The WACE program may also be completed at any stage throughout your life.

Pathway 2: The American Diploma Program

The Western Australian International School System is authorised to deliver the Pennsylvania Curriculum that is licensed by the Greenville School District. The program is administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Education according to the PA Common Core State Standards, which closely align with the National Common Core (about 85%).  Slight adjustments were made to the program to better fit the needs of Pennsylvania students.

WASS students who meet the graduation requirements of the program will be awarded the American Baccalaureate qualification, endorsed by Greenville High School (Pennsylvania, USA). This qualification is recognised by schools in the US, Australia, Canada, and other English schools worldwide.

Pathway 3: The International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IBDP)

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP)is managed by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) founded in 1968 and is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme is recognized by most countries, highly regarded by the world’s top universities, and is considered one of the most prestigious high school programs available today.

The IBDP is designed for students from 16-19 years old to help students develop 4 aspects: intellect, personality, emotion, and soft skills to improve their ability to study and work in an international environment. When attending this program, students are equipped with the appropriate skills and attitudes to develop and be more successful in colleges, universities and in their future career.

This is a two-year program, primarily aimed at students aged 16 – 19. It is designed as an academically challenging and balanced program with final examinations that prepares students for success in university and life beyond.  The IBDP has gained recognition and respect from the world’s leading universities, especially in American and Europe.

Based on the information provided by WASS, students need to consider, think carefully and plan in advance to choose the appropriate program of study, depending on their orientation and future career options. Students can also ask parents, teachers or the Overseas Study Advisory Center at WASS if you need any assistance.