The Best IB Schools in Melbourne

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme has become an increasingly popular choice for students in Melbourne who want a globally recognised education. Offering a holistic curriculum that balances academic challenge with personal development, the IB is a great alternative to the VCE for those considering international study or a broader approach to learning.

If you’re weighing up whether the IB is right for your child, here’s a guide to the best IB schools in Melbourne for 2025.

Table Of Contents:

• What Is The IB Diploma Programme?
• Best IB Schools In Melbourne 2025
• What Is The Difference With IB Over VCE?
• Conclusion
• Join 5000+ KIS Students — Start Your Free IB Trial Lesson

What Is The IB Diploma Programme?

The IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) is a two-year course for senior students (Years 11 and 12). Unlike the VCE, which allows students to specialise more narrowly, the IB requires breadth across six subjects plus three core elements:

• Theory of Knowledge (TOK): Encourages critical thinking about knowledge itself.
• Extended Essay (EE): A 4,000-word research paper on a topic of choice.
• Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS): Involvement in creative, physical, and community pursuits.

Assessment is primarily external, with students awarded a final score out of 45, which is converted to an ATAR equivalent for Australian universities.

Best IB Schools In Melbourne 2025

1. Wesley College (St Kilda Road, Glen Waverley, Elsternwick)

• One of the largest IB providers in Australia.
• Offers the IB across Primary Years, Middle Years, and Diploma levels.
• Strong track record of IB results and global university placements.

2. St Leonard’s College (Brighton East)

• Longstanding IB school with consistent top scores.
• Offers all three IB programmes (PYP, MYP, DP).
• Emphasises global citizenship and community involvement.

3. Haileybury (Keysborough, Brighton, Berwick, City)

• Offers both VCE and IB pathways.
• Known for academic excellence and wide subject offerings.
• Large and supportive alumni network.

4. Presbyterian Ladies’ College (PLC) Melbourne (Burwood)

• Prestigious girls’ school offering both IB and VCE.
• Strong tradition of academic achievement.
• Offers extensive extracurricular and leadership opportunities.

5. Carey Baptist Grammar School (Kew, Donvale)

• Offers both VCE and IB, giving students flexibility.
• Focus on holistic education, balancing academics with wellbeing.
• Consistently high IB results.

6. Kew High School (Kew East)

• One of the few government schools in Victoria offering the IB.
• Provides a more affordable pathway to the IB Diploma.
• Strong academic and community reputation.

7. Ivanhoe Grammar School (Ivanhoe, Mernda)

• Co-educational school offering both IB and VCE.
• Well-regarded for academic rigour and diverse opportunities.
• Strong international connections.

8. Sophia Mundi Steiner School (Abbotsford)

• Unique combination of Steiner philosophy and IB Diploma.
• Smaller school environment with personalised support.
• Ideal for students seeking a different approach to learning.

What Is The Difference With IB Over VCE?

Families often choose the IB over the VCE because:

• It’s internationally recognised, ideal for overseas university applications.
• Students develop well-rounded skills across sciences, humanities, languages, and arts.
• Assessment is more consistent, with less emphasis on ranking and scaling.
• It suits students who enjoy challenge, structure, and balance.

Conclusion

Melbourne offers a wide range of excellent IB schools, from prestigious private institutions to innovative alternatives like Steiner schools and government providers. Choosing the right school depends on your child’s learning style, goals, and future aspirations.

After more IB related resources? Check these out! 👇

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