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The NIST DP Programme: Personalised Pathways for Global Success

The transition to Years 12 and 13 marks the culmination of a student’s journey at NIST International School. Located in the heart of the city, we are widely recognised as one of the best international schools in Bangkok, offering a transformative educational experience that prepares young adults for success in higher education and active world citizenship.

Central to this phase is the DP Programme (International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme) and the NIST Diploma. Unlike schools that enforce a single trajectory, NIST acknowledges that each learner has unique strengths and aspirations. Therefore, we provide four distinct academic pathways within our IB curriculum framework, ensuring every student can maximise their potential while meeting the requirements for global university admissions. 

Four Distinct Academic Pathways

According to the NIST Years 12 & 13 Programme Guide (2026-2028), students may choose from four bespoke pathways. Fulfilment of any option results in the awarding of the NIST Diploma, which is accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC).

1. IB Diploma Pathway

This is the traditional and most academically challenging route, designed for students seeking the full International Baccalaureate qualification. It represents the gold standard for university preparation.

  • Structure: Students select six subjects—three at Higher Level (HL) and three at Standard Level (SL).
  • The Core: Completion of Theory of Knowledge (TOK), the Extended Essay (EE), and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) is mandatory.
  • Assessment: A combination of internal assessments and external written examinations.

2. IB Courses Pathway

This pathway offers an option for students who require a robust academic schedule but desire greater flexibility to focus on specific strengths without the structural constraints of the full diploma.

  • Structure: Students typically enrol in six IB subjects (HL or SL), but are not bound by the 3 HL / 3 SL requirement. 
  • Flexibility: This option allows for specialisation, such as taking additional Science or Arts subjects that align with specific career goals.
  • Assessment: Students receive internationally recognised certificates for each IB course completed. CAS is mandatory, whilst TOK and EE are optional.

3. IB Courses & NIST Courses Pathway

A hybrid approach for students wishing to combine the academic depth of specific IB subjects with the practical, skills-based nature of NIST Courses.

  • Structure: A combination of IB subjects (HL or SL) and NIST Courses to form a full schedule.
  • NIST Courses: These are challenging, project-based courses modelled on US high school standards. Key subjects include Applied Science, Integrated Mathematics, and Individuals and Societies.
  • Assessment: IB subjects are externally examined, whereas NIST Courses are 100% internally assessed through portfolios and projects.

4. NIST Courses Pathway

This pathway is designed for students who thrive in a continuous assessment environment, focusing on holistic learning rather than terminal examinations.

  • Structure: Students take a full suite of NIST Courses across various disciplines.
  • Focus: The curriculum emphasises critical thinking, collaboration, and practical application of knowledge.
  • Assessment: Grades are based entirely on internal assessment. Students graduate with the NIST Diploma and a High School GPA calculated on a 4.0 scale, ideal for admission to US colleges and foundation programmes.

The NIST Diploma: Graduation Requirements

Regardless of the chosen pathway, all students work towards the NIST Diploma. To graduate, students must earn a minimum of 24 credits over their final four years (Years 10–13) and maintain 90% attendance.

Credit Distribution Requirements:

  • English: 4 Credits
  • Humanities: 3 Credits
  • Mathematics: 3 Credits
  • Science: 3 Credits
  • World Languages: 2 Credits
  • Visual & Performing Arts: 2 Credits
  • Health & Physical Education: 2 Credits
  • Electives: 5 Credits

Beyond academics, students must successfully complete the Service and Activities requirements. This ensures that a Bangkok International School education at NIST fosters not just academic excellence, but also personal growth and resilience.

Years 12 & 13 Programme Guide

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The IB Curriculum: Subject Groups

For students pursuing the DP Programme, the curriculum is organised into six groups to ensure a balanced education:

  1. Studies in Language and Literature: Literary analysis in the student’s first language.
  2. Language Acquisition: Promoting multilingualism through modern languages.
  3. Individuals and Societies: Subjects include Business Management, Economics, Geography, History, Psychology, and Environmental Systems and Societies (ESS).
  4. Sciences: Comprehensive options including Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Design Technology, Computer Science, and Sports, Exercise and Health Science.
  5. Mathematics: Catering to different aptitudes with Analysis and Approaches and Applications and Interpretation.
  6. The Arts: Visual Arts, Music, Theatre, or Film. (Students may opt for an elective from Groups 1–4 instead.)
The NIST DP Programme: Personalised Pathways for Global Success

Beyond Academics: The Core & Student Life

THE IB CORE ELEMENTS

The IB curriculum places significant emphasis on "the Core," which challenges students to broaden their worldview:

  • Theory of Knowledge (TOK): A course on critical thinking and the nature of knowledge.
  • The Extended Essay (EE): An independent research paper of 4,000 words.
  • Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS): Mandatory for all pathways, CAS requires students to engage in the arts, physical exertion, and voluntary service. This aligns with our belief in the value of extracurricular activities to foster a balanced life.

University Preparation & Guidance

Navigating the transition to university requires expert support. Our University Counselling team works closely with families to ensure students select the pathway that best fits their aspirations. Whether aiming for top-tier universities in the UK, US, or elsewhere, our the value of extracurricular activitiescollaborative approach ensures every student is supported.

As a leading international school in Sukhumvit, we leverage our central location to connect students with industry leaders and NGOs, enriching their portfolios.

Why Choose NIST?

Choosing the right International School in Thailand is a pivotal decision. At NIST, we are driven by our status as a non-profit foundation, ensuring that all revenue is reinvested into the school. To learn more about our mission, you can read about NIST and our commitment to excellence.
With a diverse community and world-class facilities, NIST provides the ideal environment for your child’s future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


Discover your pathway to success.
 

Elementary

The PYP is a research-based framework that adopts a holistic approach to early childhood education.

Secondary

For our older students, NIST offers the IB Middle Years and Diploma Programmes, as well as the Global Citizen Diploma and International Award.

LEARNING PROGRAMME

NIST offers a holistic education with academics, well-being, activities, service learning, and expeditions for students' development.