Understanding the IB Exam Structure
The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) evaluates students through:
- Six subjects (3 at Higher Level, 3 at Standard Level)
- Core components: Extended Essay (EE), Theory of Knowledge (TOK), and CAS
- Final grades are based on external exams and internal assessments (IAs)
Final exams (in May or November) often contribute 60–80% of a subject’s total grade—so structured revision is essential.
General Time Commitment for IB Exam Preparation
📆 When Do Most Students Start Studying?
- Most begin serious revision 3–6 months before final exams
- Some top scorers start light review in Year 1 Term 3, especially for HLs
⏳ Weekly Study Time Recommendations:
- 3–4 months out: 10–15 hours/week
- 2 months out: 20–25 hours/week
- Final month: 30–40+ hours/week
This can be adjusted based on personal goals, available time, and subject strength.
Time Required Per Subject (HL vs SL)
🔬 HL Subjects (Recommended 60–80 hours per subject)
- These require deeper understanding and more rigorous exam prep
- Examples: HL Chemistry, HL Math AA, HL History
📘 SL Subjects (Recommended 30–50 hours per subject)
- SLs are less intensive but still need consistent review
- Focus on concepts and exam command terms
📝 Internal Components:
- IAs: 10–15 hours per subject
- Extended Essay: 30–40 hours total
- TOK Essay & Exhibition: 10–15 hours
Factors That Affect Study Time
🔍 Personal Variables:
- Strengths in languages vs sciences
- Access to resources (teachers, tutoring, online platforms)
- Motivation and study consistency
🧠 Tools and Support That Help:
- Past papers with markschemes
- Flashcards (e.g., Anki)
- Platforms like RevisionDojo with structured revision paths
How Top Scorers Study for IB Exams
🗓️ Month-by-Month Timeline (6 Months Out):
- Month 1–2: Light review, IA completion
- Month 3–4: Past paper focus by topic
- Month 5: Timed mocks and feedback cycles
- Final month: High-yield revision and error correction
📘 Past Paper Strategy:
- Practice questions under exam conditions
- Review answers with markschemes
- Learn from examiner comments and avoid common pitfalls
Mistakes to Avoid When Planning IB Exam Study Time
❌ 1. Starting Too Late
- One month of cramming rarely leads to high scores
❌ 2. Focusing Only on Favorite Subjects
- Balance your review—even your strongest subjects need polishing
❌ 3. Ignoring Internal Assessments
- Poor IA scores can sabotage your final grade
Sample Study Timelines for IB Students
⏰ 6-Month Plan (Best for 40+ Score Aspirants):
- 10–15 hours/week
- Regular past paper drills and spaced repetition
⏰ 3-Month Plan (Efficient and Intense):
- 15–20 hours/week minimum
- Must complete IAs early to free up time
⏰ 1–2 Month Plan (For Fast Learners or Crammers):
- 25–35+ hours/week
- High-pressure, high-focus approach
FAQs – How Long Should I Study for IB Exams?
Is 2 months enough for final revision?
Yes—if you’ve been consistent throughout the year. Otherwise, expect long study hours.
How many hours per subject?
- HLs: 60–80 hours
- SLs: 30–50 hours
- More for subjects with heavy content (e.g., Biology, History)
Should I revise all topics or just weak areas?
Start with weak areas, then do full-topic past paper drills for all subjects.
What’s the best way to schedule weekly study?
- 1 HL + 1 SL per day (alternate focus)
- Leave weekends for IAs, EE, and practice exams
Can I study during school holidays only?
Not ideal. Use breaks to boost study—but regular weekly review is more effective.
How much time is needed for a 7?
Depends on the subject:
- HLs often require 70–100 quality hours and mastery of past paper styles
Plan Smarter for IB Success With RevisionDojo
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- Personalized revision timelines per subject
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