High School · Ages 15–18 · Years 10–13
High School
These four years matter not only for university applications, but also for personal growth. That’s why we encourage every student to start thinking ahead from day one.
Two pathways to graduation
Choose the path
that fits your future
Students choose between two diploma pathways, with the Slovak Maturita also available alongside either track. The formal choice is made after Year 11 — there’s still time to decide, and our counseling team helps you weigh your goals.
The American Diploma (AP)
Freedom of choice
Subjects based on interest
Advanced courses
Final grades A to F
AP Exams, scored out of 5
SATs
IB Diploma Programme (DP)
Widely recognized excellence
Rigorous preparation for university
Higher Level / Standard Level courses
Final grades 1 to 7
DP Exams, scored out of 45
Pathway one
The American Program (AP)
The American Program is a flexible, credit based pathway that spans all four years of High School (Years 10 to 13). It’s built for students who want the freedom to choose subjects aligned with their own interests and future goals, while still building a strong record for university admission.
Course credits are what determine the diploma. Once a student has completed the credit requirements for a subject, that time opens up for courses they’re genuinely interested in. Universities weigh GPA, AP exam results, and SAT scores heavily, so these become the key markers of a student’s readiness.
AP Exams
38 subjects and growing. AP Exams let students demonstrate real expertise in a subject and can earn college credit. Learn more at AP College Board
SAT
The standard university entry exam, scored between 400 and 1600, covering Reading, Writing, and Maths.
GPA
Total points earned divided by credits attempted.
Partnership with Foxcroft Academy (USA)
Graduates receive a diploma from Foxcroft Academy, a 200 year old American institution in Maine, with the option to study abroad there directly. Learn more
Pathway two
The IB Diploma Programme (DP)
Across all IB programmes, students are taught how to learn, not just what to learn. The IB approach challenges students to think critically, to work across subjects and cultures, and to take real ownership of their own learning.
The DP is a structured two year academic program, taken in Years 12 and 13. Students study six subjects at the same time: three at Higher Level and three at Standard Level, alongside three core requirements — Theory of Knowledge (TOK), the Extended Essay (EE), and Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS).
Assessment includes final exams in each subject, plus coursework, oral assessments, presentations, and research projects such as the Extended Essay, an independent 4,000 word research paper. Each subject is graded from 1 to 7, for a total score out of 45. A minimum of 24 points is required to earn the diploma.
Because Biology, Chemistry, and Physics at DP level build directly on Middle School science, students who want to study these subjects in the DP need to take the corresponding MYP course in Years 10 and 11.
6
at the same time
3 + 3
Higher Level +
Standard Level
1–7
Grade per
subject
24 / 45
Minimum points
to graduate
What you’ll study
Six subject groups, one
personalized timetable
High School subjects are organized into six groups covering language and literature, world languages, individuals and societies, sciences, mathematics, and the arts. Students build a personalized timetable across these groups depending on their pathway.
Group 1
Language & Literature
Language and CompositionAP Course
- Build strong reading and writing foundations
- Focus on grammar, structure, and basic analysis
- Ideal for developing core skills
Language and Literature (English / Slovak)
- Analyze both literature and real-world texts
- Explore themes, perspectives, and global issues
- Strong focus on essay writing and argument
Literature Performance
- Study literature through performance and expression
- Combine reading with speaking, acting, and presentation
- Ideal for creative and confident communicators
Languages
Languages Offered
- Japanese on request
What You Learn
- Communicate in a new language
- Speaking, listening, reading, and writing
- Understanding culture and context
Ab InitioDP Pathway
- Designed for complete beginners
- Fast-paced introduction to a new language
- Prepares students for IB Diploma study
Individuals & Societies
Psychology
- Study how people think, feel, and behave
- Explore memory, emotions, and decision-making
- Understand human behavior in real-world contexts
History
- Study of historical events and global developments
- Analyze causes, consequences, and different perspectives
- Explore how the past shapes the present
Business Management
- Learn how businesses operate and grow
- Explore marketing, finance, and leadership
- Understand decision-making in real business
International RelationsMYP Course
- Study relationships between countries
- Explore global issues like conflict, cooperation, and diplomacy
- Understand how global systems and politics work
Individuals & SocietiesMYP Course
- Introduction to humanities subjects
- Combines history, geography, and social studies
- Focus on understanding people and the world
Sciences
Biology
- Study living organisms and life processes
- Topics include cells, genetics, and ecosystems
Chemistry
- Study matter and chemical reactions
- Understand how substances interact and change
Physics
- Study forces, energy, and the laws of the universe
- Explore motion, electricity, and waves
Computer Science
- Learn how computers work and solve problems
- Topics include programming, systems, and data
- Focus on logical thinking and problem-solving
Design Technology
- Design and create solutions to real-world problems
- Combine creativity, engineering, and innovation
Sports, Exercise & Health Science
- Study how the body works during exercise
- Topics: anatomy, physiology, and performance
- Connect science to health and sports
Mathematics
Algebra & Geometry
- Learn equations, shapes, and problem-solving basics
- Foundation for all future math courses
Algebra II & Pre-Calculus
- Develop advanced algebra and functions
- Explore graphs, trigonometry, and real-world applications
- Prepare for higher-level math pathways
Calculus
- Study change, motion, and rates
- Topics include limits, derivatives, and applications
- Advanced level of mathematics
Mathematics ApplicationsDP Pathway
- Focus on practical, real-world math
- Apply math to data, finance, and real-life situations
- Ideal for students who prefer applied problem-solving
Arts
Visual Arts
- Create and explore visual artwork
- Work with different materials and techniques
- Develop creativity and personal expression
Media
- Study how media communicates ideas
- Create content such as video, digital, and visual media
- Explore modern communication and storytelling
Drama / Theater
- Explore performance and storytelling
- Develop acting, voice, and movement skills
- Build confidence in presenting and expressing ideas
Design
- Design and create physical and digital products
- Solve real-world problems through creative solutions
- Develop skills in prototyping, digital tools, and design thinking
Shaping Subjects Around
What Comes Next
Rather than locking students into a named “major,” EISB lets students lean their subject choices toward what they’re actually interested in and where they’re headed after graduation — whether it’s the arts, IT, business, medicine, or something entirely different. A student aiming for medicine can prioritize Biology and Chemistry; a student interested in business can lean into Business Management and Mathematics Applications.
31
Credits to graduate
Graduation requirements
Credits are earned every year across English, Languages, Humanities, Science, Maths, Arts, Design, PE, and electives — alongside Theory of Knowledge, Financial Literacy, CAS, the Extended Essay, and a Personal Project. Subject choices, especially in Sciences, Maths, and Higher Level courses, can affect university eligibility, so we encourage students to plan ahead with their counselor.
Your high school roadmap
Four years, one clear path
ExploRATION & Self-discovery
Year 10
- Start thinking about your future interests
- Explore different subjects and strengths
- Begin your four-year plan
- Consider which subjects you enjoy most
Making informed choices
Year 11
- Think about what you want to study after High School
- Decide between American Diploma or IB DP
- Choose subjects that match your goals
- Consider workload and balance
Commitment & independence
Year 12
- Begin your chosen program (IB or American)
- Take more responsibility for your learning
- Start preparing for university requirements
- Begin major projects (Extended Essay, AP Exams)
Transition to university
Year 13
- Complete final assessments and exams
- Submit university applications
- Finalize your pathway after high school
- Reflect on your progress and achievements
Beyond the classroom
Internships and Projects
EISB students can customize their learning with experiential opportunities: internships, study abroad, and personalized projects.
Foxcroft Academy (USA)
Sports friendly
EISB is flexible around competition schedules and is one of the top schools for student-athlete development, with students competing in ice skating, football, tennis, and more.
Supporting you
A team around every student
Choosing a pathway is a big decision, and our students don’t have to do it alone.
Counseling
Unifrog
Students and parents get access to Unifrog, a platform with a full database of English-language Bachelor’s programs worldwide, matched to each student’s interests and strengths.
University access
Frequent visits from universities, at least two university fairs a year, and trips to visit universities in person — with opportunities to engage directly with our partner institutions.
Every High School student is supported by their class teachers and all High School teachers, alongside parents, our School Counselor, DP Coordinator, Head of High School, and Education Director.
10 min
from EISB
Boarding
For families who don’t live in Bratislava, High School students can live in off-campus residence accommodation, run in cooperation with another international school, just 10 minutes from EISB by public transportation.