Rancho Solano Preparatory School

the gold standard of education worldwide

Established in 1968 in Geneva to promote world peace and understanding through education and international mindedness, the IB is recognized worldwide for its academic rigor.

The IB develops inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through education that builds intercultural understanding and respect.

IB learners are:

  • encouraged to think critically and solve complex problems;
  • driven in their own learning;
  • prepared to succeed in the highest-ranking universities around the world;
  • more culturally aware through the development of a second language; 
  • able to engage with people in an increasingly globalized, rapidly changing world.

the ib programme at rancho solano

Rancho Solano shares the philosophy and goals of the IB Programme.

With small class sizes, highly trained and passionate teachers, and an IB-prep curriculum for 9th and 10th graders, students are positioned for success at the university level and beyond.

Rancho Prep is the only private school in the greater Phoenix area to receive IB authorization for the Diploma Programme.

Through our unique international community, Rancho Prep students develop global awareness and a better understanding of the changing world and their place in it. Our campus is home to exchange students from around the world and local students of different backgrounds, nationalities and interests.

The ideals of global-mindedness and respect for cultural and social diversity are at the core of both the IB philosophy and Rancho Solano’s long commitment to developing global citizens.

ib dp curriculum

The IB Diploma Programme is made up of the DP core and six subject groups. The DP Core is made up of three required components which aim to broaden students’ educational experience and challenge them to apply their knowledge and skills.

The six subjects are chosen from six groups:

  • Studies in language and literature:
    • English SL/HL
  • World Languages:
    • French, Mandarin, Spanish – Ab Initio, SL/HL
  • Individuals and Societies:
    • History SL/HL, Economics SL/HL, Psychology SL
  • Sciences:
    • Biology, Chemistry, Physics – SL/HL
  • Mathematics:
    • Analysis & Approaches (AA) SL/HL, Applications & Interpretations (AI) SL
  • The Arts:
    • Visual Arts SL/HL, Film SL, Music SL/HL

Students will take some subjects at higher level (HL) and some at standard level (SL). HL and SL courses differ in scope but are measured according to the same grade descriptors, with students expected to demonstrate a greater body of knowledge, understanding and skills at higher level. Students enroll in at least three HL classes (no more than four), and the remaining in SL classes.

Few students follow the same path as class selection is tailored to individual student strengths and interests.

the dp core elements

Diploma students complete all three DP Core requirements prior to graduation:

Theory of Knowledge (ToK)

ToK is a seminar course designed to encourage student reflection. Students develop the ability to see problems from many different perspectives and critically examine perception, emotion, language and reason as applied to science, art, math and history.

Extended Essay

Students complete independent, in-depth research of a question relating to one of the subjects they are studying. This illustrates a student’s ability to transcend the classroom and make real-life applications through critical thinking.

Creativity, Action and Service (CAS)

CAS requires students to complete a required number of hours engaged in activities outside the classroom. This includes projects that involve creativity, demonstrate involvement through physical action and provide service to the community. Students are encouraged to pursue projects that fulfill individual interests and often incorporate multiple CAS components.

To receive more information or speak with our admissions office regarding an International Baccalaureate Degree, please request more information or see our overview of the admissions process.

Applications open for 2025-2026

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