International Baccalaureate

Lafayette considers the higher-level International Baccalaureate (IB) exam results for course credit. Acceptable score levels are 5 or higher in all subjects. Each academic department at Lafayette College will determine the specific amount of credit awarded. No credit is given for subsidiary-level examinations.

A full IB Diploma could qualify you for sophomore (second year) standing and additional course credit if you meet the following criteria:

  • scored 5 or above on all subsidiary-level examinations
  • scored C or above on both the Theory of Knowledge and the Extended Essay
  • earned academic credit at Lafayette for scores in three higher-level subjects

The amount of credit ranges from six to eight course credits depending upon the subjects taken. In each case where sophomore standing is given, the candidate is to receive credit for two free elective credits (undesignated or INDS 198); these credits are included in the range of credits noted above. Full diploma holders who receive sophomore standing may not be awarded more than eight course credits.

Reclassified students must still complete the First-Year Seminar as a graduation requirement. Free electives (undesignated for INDS 198) may not be used for major or distribution requirements.

A number of the subjects in the IB program do not have a direct Lafayette course equivalent. Credit for examination results in these areas is not guaranteed. If no departmental sponsor can be found for the subject, higher-level examination results of 5 or higher in these areas may be awarded as free elective course work (undesignated or INDS 198). Course credits for these subjects count toward the requirements for sophomore status.

Advanced Placement

We also honor high performance on the College Board Advanced Placement (AP) examination. Generally, Lafayette will grant credit and advanced standing for a score of 4 or 5 on the AP examinations (3 for BC Calculus).

Each academic department at Lafayette College determines its own policy of AP score assessment. The registrar can provide a complete listing of credit and placement. Procedures for requesting credit are provided at enrollment.

Visit the registrar’s website for more information about IB and AP credit.