The Federal · Education Desk
IB Facts & Figures: A Global Snapshot
The International Baccalaureate educates more than 1.95 million students aged 3 to 19 across more than 160 countries, offering four interconnected programmes from early childhood through to university preparation.
The International Baccalaureate is one of the most recognised non-profit educational organisations in the world. Founded as a Swiss foundation, the IB serves students at every stage of pre-university education, making it unique in offering a complete continuum from nursery age through to the threshold of higher education.
As of March 2026, its programmes are available in over 160 countries, across more than 6,100 schools — a reach that has expanded significantly in recent years. The IB publishes detailed statistical bulletins each year summarising student results and programme data, available through the IB’s official website.
Programme Growth, 2020–2024
Between 2020 and 2024, this rate of growth reflects sustained and widespread demand for internationally recognised qualifications, spanning all four programmes and all three of the IB’s administrative regions.
The Four IB Programmes
Each programme serves a different age group and can be offered individually or as a continuum.
Emphasises inquiry-based learning and the development of international-mindedness from an early age.
Bridges primary and senior education, building academic rigour alongside personal development.
Widely recognised by universities worldwide as a mark of academic excellence and preparation for higher education.
Combines DP coursework with practical, career-oriented learning for students with diverse professional ambitions.
All four programmes can be taken independently or as a sequential continuum, allowing schools to offer an integrated, internationally consistent education from nursery through to pre-university level.
Global Reach by Region
IB programmes are active across three major administrative regions: Africa, Europe and the Middle East (AEM); the Americas; and Asia-Pacific. This regional structure enables the IB to deliver localised support while maintaining consistent global academic standards across all schools and programmes.
How the IB Is Funded
As a non-profit foundation registered in Switzerland, the IB draws income from six main streams:
- 01 Programme registration and authorisation fees from schools
- 02 Annual school membership fees
- 03 Candidate examination and assessment fees
- 04 Professional development and training fees
- 05 Publishing and resource sales
- 06 Grants, donations, and strategic partnerships
Governance & Leadership
Board of Governors
An elected Board of Governors sets strategic direction, appoints the Director General, and oversees financial management — with board membership reflecting cultural and geographic diversity. Each year, the IB publishes an annual review tracking progress against key strategic indicators, alongside a UK Gender Pay Gap Report reflecting its ongoing commitment to equity and inclusion within its own workforce.
The 2024 Gender Pay Gap Report is available to download directly from the IB’s official website, offering transparency into workforce equity measures alongside the broader annual review of strategic performance.