The International Baccalaureate (IB) program is a standardized curriculum that is offered in many countries, including the U.S. After 2 years of advanced study, students take external exams called higher level (HL) exams in their area of intensive study, which are scored using a 1-7 scale, with 7 being the highest score. Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts recognizes both the IB Diploma and Certificates. The College will award 6 to 8 credits for each higher level exam passed with a score of 4 or better. (Eight credits are awarded in the sciences, and six credits are awarded in all other subject areas.)