Introduction
As international school programmes in Singapore continue to expand, families exploring secondary options often encounter terms like the Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Pre-International Baccalaureate (Pre-IB). While both support students on the path toward the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP), they differ in structure, purpose, and overall learning experience.
So, is the MYP a pre-IB programme? It’s a common and important question. The MYP is not a pre-IB programme, but a comprehensive IB framework in its own right. Understanding how it differs from shorter preparatory tracks can help you choose an international school in Singapore that nurtures your child’s confidence, curiosity, and long-term growth. Read on to explore the distinction.
What Does the IB MYP Offer Students?
The IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) is a five-year course designed for students aged 11 to 16. It connects the Primary Years and IB Diploma Programmes, offering a consistent learning pathway that supports academic development and personal growth through inquiry, reflection, and real-world relevance.
At ISS International School, the Middle Years Programme curriculum includes eight subject groups, alongside Service as Action experiences that promote empathy and responsibility. Students also complete a Personal Project in their final year, applying their learning to an area of personal interest. Assessments follow IB criteria and provide consistent, constructive feedback, with the option to take externally moderated evaluations.
The MYP is grounded in global educational priorities, closely aligning with the OECD Learning Compass 2030. It builds competencies such as critical thinking, collaboration, ethical decision-making, and adaptability—skills that today’s learners need to thrive in a changing world.
What Does the Pre-IB Programme Involve?
The Pre-IB programme is typically a one-year academic track offered by selected schools in Singapore that do not follow the complete IB framework. Schools such as ACS (International), HCIS, and SOTA provide this focused option to help students prepare for entry into the IB Diploma Programme.
Students usually select subject combinations that align with their intended IB Diploma subjects. The curriculum strengthens core academic skills, with an emphasis on research methods, analytical thinking, and extended writing.
All assessments are developed and assessed within the school. This structure supports students who are transitioning from national or non-IB educational systems and require a more targeted year of preparation.
For families comparing international school pathways and wondering if the MYP is a pre-IB programme, understanding how Pre-IB differs in purpose and structure can guide you toward the path that best supports your child’s readiness.
How a Full IB Learning Pathway Builds Confidence and Continuity
Choosing a school that offers the full IB learning pathway allows students to develop within a consistent, student-centred environment. Each stage builds upon the last, from the early years to the middle years, and ultimately culminates in the IB Diploma Programme in Singapore. This progression supports both academic growth and personal development.
Students who come through the MYP would already be familiar with IB assessment approaches, learner profiles, and interdisciplinary thinking. They also build lasting habits of reflection, communication, and self-management, which prepare them for the expectations of the IBDP.
At ISS International School, our educators provide personalised guidance throughout the students’ learning journey, helping them discover their strengths, explore their goals, and grow into purposeful, independent learners. This continuous support creates a seamless and well-prepared transition to the IB Diploma Programme.
Final Thoughts: Progression with Purpose, Not Just Preparation
So, is the MYP a pre-IB programme? The answer lies in what each programme aims to develop. While both support the journey to the IB Diploma, the MYP offers more than just preparation. It is a globally recognised, five-year framework that nurtures inquiry, student agency, transferable skills, and global awareness.
Choosing a school that offers the MYP within a full IB continuum is more than an academic choice. It is a purposeful investment in your child’s ability to thrive at school and beyond..
If you are seeking an education that encourages your child to grow with purpose, speak with our admissions team to discover how the MYP at ISS International School blends meaningful support, clear expectations, and tailored opportunities that inspire your child to grow and succeed.
