I was interested that the university admissions service Ucas has introduced a new points tariff for the international baccalaureate and A-levels. What a shame Ucas made these changes so late that another two cohorts of IB students (2006 and 2007) have had their prospects blighted.
My son applied for a place to study ancient history next year at King’s College London, the guideline A-level score for which is BBB. Yet he was offered a place on the basis of an IB score of 32 points, which we now discover is equivalent to AAAB at A-level. Sadly, he achieved 31 points, (equivalent to three As and a C), and King’s turned him down with the comment: “We never accept anyone with less than 32 points.” They will, however, no doubt welcome plenty of students with A-level grades lower than AAAC.
My son would have been far better off doing A-levels. Had he done so, he would no doubt have easily secured his place at King’s.
Ucas should have been much more proactive about introducing this realistic tariff for the IB.
The Government has been promoting the international baccalaureate as a gold standard for years - but much good it has done the students who have taken it.
S Davies
5 Spencer Close
Chatham
Kent
