A full IB Diploma Candidate must complete and successfully examine in six different IB Diploma Programme courses, representing each of the six groups.  At Edison, this generally means HL English, HL History of the Americas, IB Math (at appropriate level), IB Physics or Biology, Language Acquisition course at the IB level, and art, music or business/management.

Each of those six course exams (which are multi-component exams consisting of both internally- and externally-assesed elements) will yield an exam score ranging from 1-7.  The diploma will be rewarded based on the combined score of those six exams, as well as successful completion of the three core items detailed below:

• Extended Essay: This assignment, done outside of any class, has a prescribed limit of 4,000 words. It offers the opportunity to investigate a topic of individual interest and acquaints students with the independent research and writing skills expected at university. It is generally accomplished during senior year.
• 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): Over the period of two years, students develop a portfolio of their self selected and extended involvement in artistic pursuits, sports, and community service work, thus fostering awareness and appreciation of life outside the academic area.

 
Students who satisfy all of the IB Programme requirements receive an IB Diploma. This diploma is recognized worldwide by over 2,000 universities. Many offer advanced standing and scholarships. At some universities, students who receive the IB diploma can receive sophomore standing.