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In this final article on International Baccalaureate Diploma Program bridging programs, we will discuss how effectively the three offered in Hong Kong equip students for open examinations, the chosen method of grading in the IBDP.

The IBDP offers some coursework as a method of examination, or Internal Assessments, within their subject grading. However, most subjects put only around 20 percent weighting on their IAs.

Thus, the majority of grading and examinations are performed in the traditional open examination method. Every May, most IBDP students will sit exams in preparation for graduation in June.

It is common for students to spend months preparing for these exams, not only academically, but emotionally as well. Therefore, it is wise for students to consider attending a school with a bridging course prior to undertaking the IBDP, as it will shed better light on the examination experience.

Most of these schools offer a dual-track program, meaning that students are split into sets depending on whether they wish to take the IBDP or Diploma of Secondary Education.

As a result, the students are familiar with examinations, as prior to split-streaming, they often undergo examinations and tests on a regular basis.

However, I would say the International General Certificate of Secondary Education equips students more adequately than Pre-IB Programs.

The IGCSE requires each student to be assessed under traditional open examination methods, in which examiners set questions under a set rubric. These students are thus more likely to have a clearer grasp of examination methods prior to undertaking the IBDP.

The IB Middle Year Program has offered open examinations from 2016, but schools must apply on behalf of students. These exams are not compulsory and sign-up is not required by schools.

Every subject is graded on a scale of 1 to 7, with 7 being the highest. The highest total score achievable is 56, and examination methods include on-screen examinations - similar to online exams - and an e-portfolio. If the former methods of examination are not chosen, then students may complete a personal project, which is assessed by external examiners in students' final year of the course.

The different methods allow students to display their knowledge and strengths with various methods. This may particularly benefit students who are anxious or perform poorly under exam pressure,

However, one downside of the MYP's methods of examination is that it does not conform or align to traditional open examination methods. Skills learnt for computerized exams may not transfer when students sit the IBDP's in-person open examinations in the future, such as answer methodology and wording, and the conventional use of pen and paper.

Therefore, the IGCSE would be my preferred choice of bridging program. Not only does it offer students a chance to consolidate strong academic foundations in preparation for future studies, it also allows students to familiarize themselves with exam conditions by giving themselves sufficient academic, physical and psychological preparation.

Additionally, the IGCSE curriculum is closest to the IBDP's curriculum, which is significant as a stepping stone for students prior to embarking on their IBDP journey. Arguably most important for students considering higher education abroad, the IGCSE produces one of the most well known and accredited certifications, which are recognized by tertiary institutions worldwide.

Of course, this doesn't mean the MYP and Pre-IB Program are not without benefits. Pre-IB Programs offer similar academic foundations compared to the IGCSE, and the MYP is known to produce conscientious, worldly-wise lifelong learners.

It should be noted that the MYP excels at training students to construct high-quality research briefs, critical analysis essays, and oral presentations.

Such skills are transferable, and are most useful when students tackle their IAs, which often use these three methods of assessment, and these are soft skills that are not only transferrable, but will follow students into their academic endeavours in the long run.

In conclusion, students who enjoy following their intuition and curiosity when learning will enjoy the MYP's relaxed structure in relation to curriculum, but students who prefer set curriculums or have weaker academic abilities should seek the IGCSE to consolidate fundamentals before doing the IBDP.

Importantly, students should take into consideration their personalities and abilities prior to selection of a bridging course.