IB Classes

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SAhopeful123

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Does USMA consider IB scores when it comes to validating courses? I know they count AP and SAT but I couldn't find anything about IB. Thanks in advance!
 
So...in the summer of 2012, my IB Diploma holder with FOUR HLs did not have his IB scores 'counted' but he did take the tests and successfully validated: Calc 1, Physics, Chemistry, and Stats. (and he had never taken statistics outside of IB HL Math). The physics test was not offered until the start of his yearling/yuk year--so he hung onto those things.
If he did it You can too.
USMA was less aware of the IB Diploma...like admissions sort of gets it--but not like you would think. However, do not be discouraged. Finish strong with your IB Diploma and take the validation tests--and have your mother or father upload your scores to your portal because they will not arrive until after R-Day.
 
I feel like I need to throw this out there - DS1 was given advice not to validate anything. He did anyway. DS2 was given the same advice, and he did not validate anything. Both are IB Diploma holders. With two sons at the academy, both doing well academically, I will tell you this: either way is fine!! The theory behind not validating is that you will have easier classes. DS2 is sailing through his math and chemistry classes, and I do think that allows him to focus on his other classes that he finds more challenging. He is also tutoring other students in math and chemistry, which he enjoys. However, DS1 is happy with his choice to validate. He wanted to get into more challenging classes sooner. Validating doesn't let you take fewer classes or have fewer hours per semester, it just puts you in a higher level class before your peers. West Point is a tough place academically. On top of adjusting to living away from home (in our case, FAR away), cadets have military and physical demands (and sleep deprivation) as well. There is some merit to making your academic life a little easier by having classes that are a review of IB classes (in DS2's case, a review of the first semester of an IB class . . . .). Food for thought!!
 
Validating opens opportunities to do as you wish with your schedule...like pursuing a double major or a minor.
My guy took a lot of 'fun' physics classes as extras and did a minor in Cyber Operations.
 
We don't have IB at my school (I had to look up what it was). I've taken all AP classes this year. Is there any point to taking the AP tests? Money is tight for my family and I'd rather not pay for them if they really don't do me any good.
 
James8284 said:
We don't have IB at my school (I had to look up what it was). I've taken all AP classes this year. Is there any point to taking the AP tests? Money is tight for my family and I'd rather not pay for them if they really don't do me any good.
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Your school may offer your family financial help. I’d take the tests. If not for USMA, scores may be helpful for plans A, B, C.
 
I'm a plebe and an IB Diploma holder. I second the advice from above, USMA doesn't really take IB scores into account like you think they would, but you have the option to test out of many core classes. Some core classes (like calculus) I did not test out of because it was an easy A and helped me refresh on my calc skills, but some (like cyber) I did. Just depends on the person. I would recommend validating what you can/want to, but don't take all advanced classes here because you see it as a fit alternative to validation, it will just make your schedule a lot harder, and unlike in high school there's no GPA boost for advanced classes.
 
THmom said:
Your school may offer your family financial help. I’d take the tests. If not for USMA, scores may be helpful for plans A, B, C.
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I got fee waivers for both my IB and AP exams in high school due to being low-income, talk to your guidance counselor.
 
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