Introduction
Missing an IB exam might feel like a nightmare—but it’s not the end of the world. Whether it was due to illness, accident, or miscommunication, you’re not the first IB student this has happened to—and the system has processes in place to help you recover.
This guide explains exactly what happens if you miss an IB exam, what your options are, and how you can move forward without panic.
Valid vs. Invalid Reasons for Missing an Exam
The IB distinguishes between valid and invalid reasons for absence:
Valid reasons:
- Medical emergencies (must be documented)
- Family emergencies (bereavement, serious events)
- Accidents or injuries
- Mental health crises (with appropriate documentation)
- Natural disasters or external events
Invalid reasons:
- Oversleeping
- Travel delays without documentation
- Misreading the timetable
- Lack of preparation
- Forgetting the exam time
Valid absences can be addressed through official procedures. Invalid absences usually result in no grade for that paper.
Immediate Steps to Take If You Miss an Exam
If you miss an exam:
- Notify your IB Coordinator immediately
- Provide documentation (doctor’s note, police report, etc.)
- Complete any required forms for special consideration
- Remain available for follow-up communication
Do not attempt to reach out directly to the IB—all communication must go through your school.
What the IB Organization Says About Missed Exams
According to IB regulations:
- If a student misses one exam with a valid reason, the school can apply for “special consideration”
- If enough components of a subject are completed (e.g., IA, Paper 1), you may still receive a final grade
- If an entire subject is missed, no grade is issued unless a re-sit is taken
There are strict forms, timelines, and documentation requirements for every case.
Can You Get a Grade Without Sitting the Exam?
Yes, in limited situations. The IB may calculate a final grade based on:
- Your predicted grade
- Your Internal Assessments (IA)
- Other completed exam components (e.g., Paper 1 if you missed Paper 2)
This is only allowed when the school applies for special consideration and provides evidence of a genuine reason for your absence.
How Special Consideration Works
Special Consideration is a formal request made by your school on your behalf. It must include:
- A completed IB form
- Documentation from a third party (e.g., doctor)
- A detailed account of the situation
Outcomes may include:
- Adjusted final grade
- Permission to re-sit
- Marking based on completed components
Can You Re-sit the IB Exam?
Yes. IB exams are offered twice a year:
- May session (main exam season)
- November session (second opportunity)
You can re-sit missed exams in the next session, but:
- You’ll need to re-register
- It may delay your university admission
- You may need additional study time or support
What Happens to Your Diploma Status?
- If you miss one paper of a subject but complete the rest, you may still get a grade
- If you miss an entire subject, your diploma may be withheld until you retake it
- If you miss multiple subjects, you may receive Certificates instead of the full diploma
How Universities Handle Missed IB Exams
Most universities understand that life happens. If you’ve:
- Missed exams with valid reasons
- Kept your school and university updated
- Provided official documentation
...then you may receive:
- A deferred decision
- A chance to submit predicted grades or explanations
- An option to reapply or defer your offer
Always communicate early and honestly.
How to Prevent Missing Exams
- Triple-check the exam schedule and venue
- Prepare a countdown calendar
- Set multiple alarms
- Have a parent or friend do daily check-ins during exam season
- Arrange transport early if traveling to an exam center
Mental Health and Missed Exams
If anxiety or a panic attack caused your absence:
- Speak to a mental health professional and get documentation
- Let your school know it was a medical emergency
- Request special consideration or a deferred exam
Your well-being comes first—IB recognizes mental health as a valid medical issue.
School Responsibilities in a Missed Exam Situation
Your school or IB Coordinator is responsible for:
- Filing all official documents with IB
- Explaining your options
- Helping you register for re-sits
- Communicating with universities (if needed)
What If It Was a Mistake or Miscommunication?
If you were late or in the wrong room, it’s not ideal—but still recoverable:
- Arrive within 60 minutes = may still be allowed to sit
- If denied entry, request an official report to document the situation
- Your school can appeal to IB if it was due to staff error or unclear communication
RevisionDojo’s Emergency Academic Support Services
Missed an exam? Need to prep for a re-sit? We’ve got you.
RevisionDojo offers:
- Urgent tutoring to help you prepare for re-sits
- IA support to boost your subject scores
- University delay planning for impacted applicants
- Emotional support and mindset coaching during crisis moments
Call to Action: Don’t Panic—Get Support from RevisionDojo
Whether you missed one paper or an entire exam, you have options—and you’re not alone.
Visit www.revisiondojo.com and let us help you navigate your next steps with clarity, support, and expert planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I still get the diploma if I miss one exam?
Yes—if you completed other components and your school files for special consideration.
2. Can I retake just one subject?
Yes—re-sitting a subject is allowed in the next exam session.
3. What documentation do I need for special consideration?
A doctor’s note, official report, or police statement depending on the situation.
4. Will my university withdraw their offer?
Not always. Contact them early and provide documentation—they may offer flexibility.
5. Can I get a refund for the missed exam?
Unlikely, unless it was due to school error. Policies vary.
6. Can RevisionDojo help if I missed multiple exams?
Yes—we offer re-sit prep, strategic planning, and emotional coaching.
Conclusion
Missing an IB exam is serious—but it’s not the end of your IB journey. With timely action, valid documentation, and the right support, you can still succeed.
Let RevisionDojo help you bounce back stronger.
