Introduction: More Than a Curriculum—A Philosophy of Learning
The International Baccalaureate (IB) isn’t just an academic program—it’s a mission-driven framework focused on shaping the whole child. At the heart of this mission lies the IB Learner Profile, a set of ten essential attributes that every IB student, teacher, and school community strives to cultivate.
From Primary Years Programme (PYP) to Middle Years (MYP), Diploma Programme (DP), and Career-related Programme (CP), the IB Learner Profile serves as a north star for teaching and learning—inspiring international-mindedness, personal development, and academic integrity.
Let’s explore what the learner profile is, why it matters, and how it impacts student outcomes and school culture.
What Is the IB Learner Profile?
The IB Learner Profile is a set of 10 attributes that represent the ideal characteristics of an IB student. It’s the foundation of the IB teaching philosophy, aiming to develop internationally minded learners who are not only academically capable but also ethical, reflective, and globally aware.
✅ It’s not just about what students learn—but who they become.
These attributes guide character development, inform instructional design, and provide a shared language for values-driven education across all IB programs.
The 10 IB Learner Profile Attributes
Each attribute below helps build a student who is confident, compassionate, and committed to making a difference.
1. Inquirers
Students nurture their natural curiosity, ask questions, and conduct independent investigations. IB encourages a culture of inquiry-based learning, empowering students to become lifelong learners.
2. Knowledgeable
IB learners explore a broad and balanced curriculum that spans local and global contexts. They deepen their understanding of significant ideas and issues, connecting disciplines and applying knowledge to the real world.
3. Thinkers
They use critical and creative thinking to analyze problems and make ethical decisions. The IB emphasizes problem-solving skills, pushing students to approach challenges thoughtfully and responsibly.
4. Communicators
Students express ideas clearly and confidently in more than one language and format, while also being good listeners. Whether through group projects or presentations, collaboration and dialogue are core to IB learning.
5. Principled
IB learners act with integrity, honesty, and fairness. They understand the importance of ethical decision-making and take responsibility for their actions and consequences.
6. Open-Minded
They appreciate their own cultures while being receptive to others’. Open-minded learners are respectful of diverse perspectives and are willing to grow from new experiences and views.
7. Caring
A caring student demonstrates empathy, compassion, and respect for others. They seek to make a positive difference through service, kindness, and community involvement.
8. Risk-Takers (also called Courageous)
IB encourages students to step out of their comfort zone, face challenges with resilience, and explore new roles, ideas, and strategies. Courage isn’t just about trying new things—it’s about doing so with confidence and purpose.
9. Balanced
Students understand the importance of emotional, intellectual, and physical balance. IB emphasizes well-being, mental health, and mindfulness, helping learners manage stress and maintain perspective.
10. Reflective
IB learners reflect deeply on their learning journey. They assess their strengths and areas for improvement and strive to grow both personally and academically through meaningful self-assessment.
Why Is the Learner Profile Important?
These 10 attributes are not just ideals—they are lived practices embedded into teaching, assessments, and everyday student interactions. The IB Learner Profile:
Shapes lesson planning and classroom management strategies
Builds a shared culture of respect, curiosity, and ethics
Reinforces the IB mission of creating a better and more peaceful world
Helps students develop as compassionate, thoughtful global citizens
Whether through CAS projects, TOK discussions, or personal reflections, the learner profile is woven into everything IB schools do.
How Educators Use the IB Learner Profile
IB educators don’t just teach about the learner profile—they live it, model it, and embed it in all areas of school life.
👩🏫 In the Classroom:
Teachers connect each unit with relevant IB attributes
Students reflect on which attributes they are using or developing
Assessments often include self-reflection aligned with the profile
🏫 Across the School:
The learner profile becomes part of assemblies, newsletters, and parent communication
Schools reward and recognize students who embody the profile in actions
It shapes school-wide behavior expectations and mission alignment
🎯 For Students:
Students use it for goal setting and personal development
It enhances college applications by demonstrating emotional intelligence and global perspective
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the purpose of the IB Learner Profile?
The learner profile supports the IB mission to develop internationally minded individuals who strive to create a better world. It guides both academic and personal development.
Are the IB Learner Profile attributes used in all IB programs?
Yes. The profile applies across all IB programs—PYP, MYP, DP, and CP—creating a consistent values-based framework from early childhood to pre-university education.
How can students demonstrate the learner profile in class?
By collaborating, reflecting, researching independently, and showing empathy and responsibility in both academic and social settings.
How do teachers apply the IB Learner Profile?
Teachers embed the attributes into lesson objectives, assessment criteria, and student feedback. They also model the behaviors in their teaching practice.
What’s the difference between IB attributes and core components?
The learner profile is about who the student becomes (attributes), while the core components like TOK, EE, and CAS are the structured experiences that help develop those attributes.
Final Thoughts: Building Global Learners, One Attribute at a Time
The IB Learner Profile isn’t just a poster on the wall—it’s a philosophical compass that empowers students and educators alike. It guides how IB schools build curriculum, engage communities, and inspire learners to become curious, caring, capable global citizens.
If you’re looking for an education that goes beyond academics to shape the whole person, the IB and its learner profile provide a transformative framework.
