More than 250 students, educators, parents and school leaders from 77 IB schools gathered at the Michigan State Capitol on 3–4 March 2026 for Michigan Advocacy Day, urging higher education institutions to adopt more consistent policies for awarding postsecondary credit for International Baccalaureate (IB) coursework. The two-day event was organized by the IB Schools of Michigan (IBSOM) in partnership with the IB.
The advocacy effort centres on the introduction of a resolution in both the Michigan Senate and House of Representatives, encouraging colleges and universities across the state to adopt a consistent policy for awarding postsecondary credit for IB courses.
As increasing numbers of Michigan students complete rigorous IB coursework, inconsistent credit policies among higher education institutions have created uncertainty for students and families. The proposed resolution encourages dialogue while respecting institutional autonomy, with the goal of ensuring fair and transparent recognition of college-level academic achievement.
During the event, students met with legislators, observed vote proceedings, and participated in a rally on the Capitol steps, demonstrating civic engagement in action. The day highlighted how IB students apply critical thinking, communication, and leadership skills developed through their studies to real-world policy discussions.
Lynne Gibson, Vice President of IBSOM and Head of School at the International Academy in Bloomfield Hills, emphasised the importance of clarity for families navigating postsecondary pathways. “IB students undertake externally assessed, internationally benchmarked coursework that prepares them exceptionally well for higher education. Consistent credit policies provide transparency, and help students and families plan effectively for college.”
Michigan’s public universities benefit from enrolling IB graduates, who are widely recognised for their strong academic preparation and persistence in higher education. According to a study conducted in the United States, 94% of DP students graduate from college, compared to the national average of 68%. Educational advocates noted that clear and consistent credit policies can reduce duplicate coursework, lower costs for families, and strengthen the state’s efforts to retain talented graduates.
“I’ve een firsthand how inconsistent credit for IB scores in Michigan has pushed top students to leave the state,” said Andrew James, DP graduate, class of 2024, Northville High School, and current student at the University of Michigan. “About a third of my graduating class went to schools elsewhere that recognise their work, and many of them won’t come back.”
“I’m here today to advocate through action, meeting with legislators and showing what the IB students can do,” said Omar Elghawy, DP student at Portage Northern High School. “We want to make the most of the work we’ve done in high school, set ourselves up for success, and give back to Michigan. Ensuring equal credit for all IB courses will help future students apply what they’ve learned, make fair college choices, and remove financial barriers.”
Daryl Robbins, whose daughter Sawyer Karmol is a DP student at the International Academy, said: “It’s really exciting to be at the Capitol as a parent because this resolution is so important for my daughter. I want her to have the option to stay in Michigan if she chooses to attend university here. We’re really proud of everything she has accomplished, and we hope she’ll be able to bring those talents back to our state.”
Michigan Advocacy Day reflects a shared commitment among students, educators and policymakers to better align schools and higher education systems in ways that recognise academic achievement and expand opportunities. By elevating student voices, the event underscored the important role of civic participation in shaping educational policy and strengthening communities across the state.
The IB continues to expand across Michigan, giving more students the opportunity to thrive using a globally recognised academic framework. Around 25,000 students receive an IB education each year in the state, with 77 IB schools either authorised or in the candidacy phase. In total, 88 IB programmes are offered across Michigan to students of all ages, empowering learners to take ownership of their education and develop the skills needed to succeed in college and their future careers.
 coursework. The two-day event was organized by the IB Schools of Michigan (IBSOM) in partnership with the IB.){kind=icon}