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ISS-Oeiras - International Sharing School
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Studying for the IB Diploma at ISS

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (DP) is a challenging but exciting pre-university course that prepares students with skills to succeed at university and beyond. Leading universities around the world value Diploma Programme graduates for their well-rounded knowledge, skills and abilities.

Fill in the form, and a member of the Admissions Team will get in touch. 

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Developing well-rounded individuals

The DP experience at ISS goes far beyond academics, combining rigorous learning with strong pastoral care, university preparation, and opportunities for students to grow into responsible leaders and future-ready entrepreneurs. All guided by our highly experienced staff, comprising highly specialised and collaborative professionals, many with extensive IB experience. Within the Diploma Programme alone, there are more than 15 teachers who hold IB roles such as Examiner, Team Leader, Workshop Leader and Standardisation Team Member.

Beyond academics, our DP students enjoy a diverse school experience. Learners can take part in sports, performing arts, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, and our Model United Nations club, as well as international trips as part of the CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) component of the IB. These experiences, which often include travel abroad and participation in global events, play an important role in developing students’ confidence, sense of collaboration, and global perspective. Students also have opportunities to take part in art shows, theatre productions and STEAM events and competitions, with ample opportunities to showcase their talents and creativity.

University and beyond

In their final years of school, students benefit from specialised careers support, from selecting their preferred university courses and applying for a place, to weekly sessions with our careers counsellor. 

Find out more about Preparing for University

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Why choose the IB Diploma Programme?

The DP curriculum helps students grow as people, not just learners. Alongside regular subjects like maths and science, they develop Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills which help them think deeply, solve problems, work well with others, and understand how they learn – building confidence and curiosity that lasts a lifetime.

According to a study by researchers at Inflexion, DP students are better able than their peers to cope with demanding workloads, manage their time, and meet the expectations placed on them – thanks to the Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills. Our graduates leave ISS Lisbon as internationally-minded young adults, respectful of others’ cultural beliefs and perspectives, while also taking active responsibility for their own learning.

The Diploma Programme develops students who:

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Language and Literature - English and Portuguese
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Language Acquisition - English, Spanish, Portuguese, French
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Individuals & Societies
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Sciences
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Mathematics
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Arts
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Physical and Health Education
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Design

Core elements of the DP Programme

The core elements of the IB Diploma Programme strengthen students’ academic and personal development through critical thinking, self-driven research, and meaningful community engagement.

These elements encourage students to apply their knowledge thoughtfully, develop resilience and build a sense of responsibility, equipping them with essential skills for lifelong learning and success beyond the classroom.

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The Diploma Programme is more than an academic journey; it’s a transformative experience that shapes globally-minded, resilient, and lifelong learners. Students are immersed in a culturally diverse ecosystem with more than 50 nationalities, punctuated by a sharing spirit, academic rigour, inclusion and mutual respect.

DAVID CYRNE FERREIRA, Head of Diploma Programme

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Subject Blocks offered at ISS Lisbon

Diploma Programme students at ISS Lisbon choose one course from each of the six subject blocks, delivering deep knowledge and understanding in language and literature, language acquisition, individuals and societies, sciences, mathematics, and arts.

BLOCK 1

Language & Literature

  • English A: Language & Literature
  • English B
  • Language A: Literature School supported self-taught (can be combined with English B) (Only a Standard Level Subject)
BLOCK 2

Language Acquisition

  • Russian A: Literature
  • Portuguese A: Language & Literature
  • French B
  • Portuguese B
  • Spanish B
  • French ab initio (Only a Standard Level Subject)
BLOCK 3

Individuals & Societies

  • Business Management
  • Economics
  • History
  • Psychology
  • Physics
BLOCK 4

Sciences

  • Biology
  • Design Technology
  • Physics
  • Sports Exercise & Health Science
  • Environmental Systems & Societies
BLOCK 5

Mathematics

  • Mathematics AA: Analysis & Approaches
  • Mathematics AI: Applications & Interpretations
BLOCK 6

Others

  • Business Management
  • Chemistry
  • Global Politics
  • Music
  • Visual Art

Subjects offered are influenced by student interest levels, requiring a minimum number of students to run a particular subject. Additionally, scheduling constraints can restrict certain combinations of subjects from being taught simultaneously. Before finalising their choices, DP 1 students must meet with the DP coordinator and principal to discuss their subject preferences, ensure that their selected subjects are available, and confirm that the schedule aligns with their choices.

Want to know more about IB Diploma Programme at ISS 

Enquire now