- (512) 351-3403
- admissions@istexas.org
- (512) 351-3403
- admissions@istexas.org
Our Upper School offers a rigorous, internationally recognized IB curriculum that challenges students to think critically, pursue academic excellence, and refine their unique interests. Emphasizing depth of study, research skills, and a commitment to community service, students graduate as well-rounded individuals ready to contribute meaningfully to a diverse world.
The high school programme at IST isn’t just another curriculum—it’s a transformative academic experience for students who think deeply, question boldly, and engage globally. Recognized worldwide for its academic rigor, the IB curriculum challenges students to go far beyond memorization and standardized tests. It cultivates critical thinkers, ethical leaders, and compassionate global citizens.
Grade 9 – Grade 12
IST is currently undergoing an exciting phase of growth and part of our trajectory involves the pursuit of becoming an accredited Diploma Programme (DP) school – the capstone to the IB journey.
The programme balances rigorous academics and personal development, preparing students for university through a combination of exams and coursework that emphasizes international perspective and critical thinking skills.
Building off of the framework of the primary and middle school years, the Diploma Programme emphasizes international-mindedness, critical thinking, and holistic education; explicitly focuses on developing the “whole student.”
The International School of Texas is a Candidate School* for the Diploma Programme. This school is pursuing authorization as an IB Continuum School. These are schools that share a common philosophy—a commitment to high quality, challenging, international education that IST believes is important for our students.
*Only schools authorized by the IB Organization can offer any of its four academic programmes: the Primary Years Programme (PYP), the Middle Years Programme (MYP), the Diploma Programme, or the Career-related Programme (CP). Candidate status gives no guarantee that authorization will be granted. For further information about the IB and its programmes, visit www.ibo.org
Internationally recognized by universities worldwide with a consistent global standard, an International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma sets students apart.
An IB/DP diploma represents one of the highest standards in university preparatory education. More than 1,000 colleges and universities in North America have recognition policies on how they weigh it in admissions, advanced standing, college credit and scholarships.
Our goal at IST is to prepare our students for the next step in their academic journey. We provide the platform for our graduates to be passionate, life-long learners who look at the world through a global lens and approach each opportunity with compassion, enthusiasm, and confidence.
At the heart of our programme is an inquiry-based approach that encourages students to explore real-world issues through hands-on learning, collaboration, and interdisciplinary study. Instead of isolated subjects taught in silos, students make meaningful connections across disciplines—integrating science, literature, history, and the arts to understand the world. Learning is active, not passive. Students design experiments, lead discussions, debate ethical dilemmas, and conduct original research.
The expectations are intentionally high. At IST, high school students are not only required to master rigorous content, but also to reflect on their learning, manage long-term projects like the Extended Essay, and demonstrate initiative through Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS) experiences. It’s a programme that demands both academic precision and personal growth.
What really sets us apart is the way in which we cultivate a global mindset for our students. With an emphasis on multiple perspectives, multilingual communication, and international awareness, students graduate with more than just academic knowledge—they leave prepared to engage with an integrated world, and to lead with both intellect and integrity.
International School of Texas, TEPSAC & TAPPS accreditation
The International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO)
26 credits
In addition to the credit requirements of the IST Diploma:
The International School of Texas is a Candidate School* for the Diploma Programme. This school is pursuing authorization as an IB Continuum School. These are schools that share a common philosophy—a commitment to high quality, challenging, international education that IST believes is important for our students.
*Only schools authorized by the IB Organization can offer any of its four academic programmes: the Primary Years Programme (PYP), the Middle Years Programme (MYP), the Diploma Programme, or the Career-related Programme (CP). Candidate status gives no guarantee that authorization will be granted. For further information about the IB and its programmes, visit www.ibo.org
