Introduction
One of the most underestimated parts of IB exams is time.
Students often ask:
- “Why does this exam feel so long?”
- “Why do some subjects have multiple long papers?”
- “How am I supposed to maintain focus for hours?”
IB exam length is deliberate — and understanding it helps students manage stamina, pacing, and performance.
Why IB Exam Lengths Vary
IB exams differ in length because they test different skills:
- Writing-heavy subjects need extended time
- Problem-solving subjects require thinking space
- Language exams test sustained concentration
Exam duration reflects skill demand, not subject difficulty.
General IB Exam Length Patterns
While exact timings vary, most IB exams fall into these patterns:
- Short papers: Focused skills or data response
- Medium-length papers: Structured writing or problem-solving
- Long papers: Extended essays or complex analysis
Longer exams reward endurance and organisation, not speed.
Why Long Exams Feel Harder Than They Are
Long exams feel difficult because:
- Fatigue builds
- Concentration dips
- Small mistakes increase
Many students know the content but struggle to maintain clarity across the full paper.
