Changes to Nipissing University Policy Gives Chippewa Students a Head Start

Chippewa students have another reason to stay local for their post-secondary education after recent changes made by Nipissing University to how it recognizes the achievements of students enrolled in the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. Four years after Chippewa Secondary School received its accreditation as an IB World School, establishing the program for students looking to get a head start on their post-secondary education, Nipissing University has implemented a policy which provides the equivalent of one full year of university credits to students who complete the IB diploma at an IB World School.  

“We are so excited about the new changes and believe that this will continue to strengthen our relationship with Nipissing University," said Kim Larivee, IB Coordinator at Chippewa Secondary School. "Our continued collaboration offers students a very desirable path to success.”

Under the new rules, students who successfully complete the IB program with at least six subjects, including three at a higher level, with a score of at least 24/45, will be considered for admission, with eligibility to receive credits for all IB courses (both standard level (SL) and higher level (HL)) completed with a score of 5 or higher. 

“These policy changes will offer another attractive reason for local students to attend Nipissing University, and gives them a head start on obtaining their post-secondary education," said Dr. Arja Vainio-Mattila, Provost, VP Academic and Research at Nipissing University. "Beyond the great benefits for local students, these changes mean that Nipissing University provides some of the most lucrative advantages in the country for prospective IB graduates.”

The IB Diploma Programme is internationally recognized as representing 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.

Chippewa’s IB program, which was accredited in 2015, is a magnet program of the Near North District School Board. Students enrolled in the program attend a retreat at Nipissing University in grade nine, meeting professors and attending workshops. In grade eleven and twelve, students have access to Nipissing University professors and library facilities, while also gaining valuable post-secondary experience through participating in lectures and department tours.

There are two upcoming information nights being held at Chippewa Secondary School for parents of students interested in exploring the IB program. The first, on February 6th at 6:30PM, is for the parents of students currently enrolled in the pre-IB program in grade ten. The second information night is for parents of prospective grade nine students on February 13th at 6:30PM.