Why Choose the IAD?

The IAD provides a well-rounded, highly personalised learning experience that blends strong academics with skills development and real-world application. It supports each student in crafting a unique pathway that reflects their interests, goals, and strengths.

Students are supported to design a highly personalised IAD journey by choosing their:

• A level qualifications
• EPQ topic
• IAD pathway (from five options)
• Complementary courses relevant to their chosen IAD pathway

All qualifications, microcredentials, and certificates earned throughout an individual’s IAD journey are stored securely in a personal digital wallet, creating a Real-world Skills Profile - a distinctive record showcasing each student’s readiness for the future.

IAD Pathways

EiM students choose one of the five IAD pathways*, depending on their strengths, interests, and plans for the future, from:

• STEM & Engineering
• Medical Sciences, Leadership & Coaching
• Environmental Sciences & Ecopreneurship
• Global Systems & Strategic Leadership
• Arts, Design & Emerging Media

* As the new IAD continues to grow across our global network, some but not all of our schools will offer every pathway immediately. Availability may vary by location and expand over time.

A Levels

The Academic Component of the IAD

A levels form the academic foundation of the IAD. Typically studied over two years (ages 16–18), A levels are known globally for their academic depth and challenge. They are often described as the "gold standard" of secondary education and are highly valued by universities and prestigious employers worldwide.

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)

In addition to A levels, all IAD students undertake an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), an independent research project that builds critical skills such as analysis, project management, communication, and independent learning.

Students choose a topic they are passionate about and explore it in depth, producing either a written report (about 5,000 words) or a practical/creative project with a presentation component.

The EPQ is highly respected by universities and can contribute up to 28 UCAS points — equivalent to half an A Level — giving students an academic and personal edge in their applications.

Real-world Skills

The Future-proofing Component of the IAD

Academic results are only part of the story. Employers and universities increasingly value attributes such as creativity, ethical judgment, collaboration, and adaptability. The IAD integrates these essential qualities throughout the learning experience.

Drawing on the University of Melbourne’s New Metrics for Success, a globally recognised framework for next-generation learning, the IAD intentionally develops seven real-world skills:

• Personal Development - understanding and improving oneself
• Acting Ethically – making principled decisions
• Active Citizenship - contributing positively to communities
• Agency in Learning – taking ownership of education
• Communication – expressing ideas effectively
• Collaboration – working well with others
• Quality Thinking – critical and creative problem-solving

These competencies are validated by the University of Melbourne and the Council of International Schools, affirming that IAD graduates are equipped for both university and life beyond school.

Digital Real-World Skills Profile

Throughout their IAD journey, students earn a range of microcredentials and certifications — from leadership and sustainability to first aid, environmental training, or Duke of Edinburgh/International Award achievements.

All accomplishments - academic and extracurricular -, are captured in a secure personal digital wallet that forms a dynamic Real-World Skills Profile. This profile provides universities and employers with a clear view of each student’s learning journey, strengths, and potential.

Real-world Context

The Signature Component of the IAD

At EiM, we connect learning with the real world through powerful collaborations and immersive courses.

The IAD connects academic study with real-world experiences through curated collaborations with world-class institutions and organisations. Students gain access to global experts, mentors, and hands-on projects in sustainability, leadership, and innovation.

EiM graduates have the skills, confidence, and mindset to tackle complex, human-centred challenges of the future.

Real-world Context Case Study

HiF, an EiM school in collaboration with the Villars Institute

The Villars Institute is a leading Swiss foundation dedicated to accelerating the transition to a net-zero, nature-positive world. The Institute brings together global experts, scientists, entrepreneurs, and young people to tackle some of the most complex challenges of our time.

Through collaboration with Villars, HiF students engage directly with leading thinkers, scientists, and innovators, developing systems-thinking and sustainability skills that prepare them to lead with purpose in a rapidly changing world.