Backgrounds and Characteristics of IB Students Enrolled at Okayama University: A 7-year Experience

The number of International Baccalaureate (IB) students applying to Japanese Universities is increasing. Okayama University is a Super Global Japanese National University which started IB admissions in 2012, and presently has 50 IB students in 11 faculties and 1 special program, in addition to 4 IB graduates. The IB journey began in 2012, and over a period of 7 years, Okayama University has taken multiple approaches to become IB student-friendly, by revising the IB admission policies as per IB student requirements; training faculty on IB education; exploring the differences in IB education and Japanese High School education; listening to IB student voices and familiarizing faculty about IB student backgrounds and characteristics. By providing IB student support, educating faculty and doing extensive IB research, Okayama University has established itself as a pioneer of IB admissions among the IB Organization, prospective IB students and parents, IB college counselors and other National Universities in Japan.