Why Early Preparation Matters in the IB
The IB Diploma Programme is academically rigorous, with students juggling six subjects, Internal Assessments (IAs), Theory of Knowledge (TOK), the Extended Essay (EE), and CAS. The workload is immense, and the exams test not just memory but deep understanding and application.
Starting early helps to:
- Reduce stress and panic close to exam season
- Allow time to revise thoroughly and practice past papers
- Integrate knowledge over time, improving retention
- Make space for unexpected delays in schoolwork or life
Students who begin preparation gradually are more likely to perform consistently across subjects.
General Timeline for IB Exam Preparation
Year 1 (DP1): Laying the Groundwork
- Primary Focus: Understanding concepts, building class notes, and starting Internal Assessments (IAs)
- Prep Actions: Keep a well-organized folder per subject and clarify doubts immediately
Year 2 (DP2): Active Revision Phase
- First Semester (August–December): Start reviewing first-year topics, finalize IAs
- Second Semester (January–April): Begin focused exam prep, including timed practice
Final 6 Months Before Exams
- Start serious exam revision in January of DP2
- Aim to complete your first full revision cycle by March
- Use the final month for mock exams, error review, and content polishing
Subject-Specific Preparation Timelines
Some subjects demand earlier and more frequent revision:
- Math and Sciences (e.g., Math AA, Chemistry, Physics): Start intensive review at least 6–7 months in advance
- Humanities and Languages (e.g., History, English A, Psychology): Begin focused practice 5–6 months ahead
- HL Subjects: Require more time due to depth of content
- SL Subjects: Slightly less time, but don’t underestimate them
Plan around your strengths and weaknesses—start tougher subjects earlier.
Common Mistakes When Starting Too Late
- Panic cramming that leads to burnout
- Missing opportunities for core bonus points from TOK and EE
- Having no time to properly revise past paper feedback
- Overloading final weeks and compromising sleep or health
Last-minute studying is not sustainable for the depth the IB demands.
Signs You Should Start Revising Earlier
If you notice any of these, consider starting revision immediately:
- Frequent confusion in class or poor understanding of core topics
- Low mock test scores or falling grades
- Delayed IAs or incomplete Extended Essay drafts
- Poor time management or increasing stress
Starting early gives you time to adapt and recover from these setbacks.
How to Build a Realistic Revision Schedule
Use the backward planning method:
- Determine your exam dates
- Work backward to divide topics over weeks
- Add time buffers for illness or emergencies
Tips:
- Rotate subjects daily (e.g., 2 per day)
- Use weekends for deeper revision or mock practice
- Schedule review time weekly to reinforce old topics
- Include breaks and exercise to avoid burnout
Month-by-Month IB Exam Study Timeline
- August – September (DP2)
✅ Finish Internal Assessments (IAs)
✅ Begin light revision of Year 1 topics - October – November
✅ Start solving past paper questions by individual topic
✅ Identify areas needing deeper review - December
✅ Consolidate and organize all subject notes
✅ Revise weak areas from mock feedback or recent assessments - January – February
✅ Begin full mock exams under timed conditions
✅ Fill in knowledge gaps and address common mistakes - March
✅ Final round of content-heavy revision
✅ Focus on mastering exam-style questions - April
✅ Practice entire papers under real exam conditions
✅ Polish exam techniques and refine timing strategy - May
✅ Sit final IB exams with full confidence and preparation
Tools and Resources to Help You Prepare Effectively
- Past Papers & Mark Schemes – essential for real exam insight
- RevisionDojo – subject-specific quizzes, flashcards, and syllabus breakdowns
- Oxford IB Guides and Study Resources – clear topic summaries
- YouTube Channels – like Richard Thornley (Chem), Alex M (Math), and others
- Digital Calendars – Google Calendar or Notion to track your schedule
Combine analog and digital tools to personalize your learning.
How to Balance Revision With School Life
You don’t need to choose between school success and exam preparation. Try this:
- Prioritize homework and IAs early in the term
- Dedicate evenings or weekends to light revision
- Use holidays and breaks for intense practice
- Practice stress-reduction techniques like journaling, yoga, or mindful walks
Balance builds sustainability—and you’ll need it over two full years.
Conclusion: Smart Timing Is the Key to IB Success
So, how long before the IB exam should you start preparing?
👉 Ideally, begin serious revision 5–6 months before your exams, with lighter review beginning even earlier.
👉 For HL Math or Science, 7–8 months may be necessary for mastery.
👉 The earlier you begin, the more confident, consistent, and calm you'll be.
Whether you're in Year 1 or 2, it’s never too early—or too late—to start preparing smarter. Plan well, work consistently, and the IB won't feel so overwhelming after all.
FAQs
Is 3 months enough to prepare for IB exams?
It’s possible but very challenging. You’ll need intensive daily study and full familiarity with content beforehand.
Can I start one subject earlier than others?
Absolutely. Many students begin with Math, Sciences, or HLs before other subjects.
What if I haven’t finished my IAs yet?
Prioritize finishing IAs early, then begin focused exam prep. Balance both until IAs are submitted.
When should I start doing past papers?
Start with topic-specific past paper questions 6 months out, and full papers 2–3 months before exams.
Should I study during school breaks?
Yes—but don’t overdo it. Use breaks for focused, high-quality sessions and give yourself rest time too.
How many hours per week is ideal?
Aim for 10–15 hours/week in the last 3 months, increasing closer to exam season.
