IB History has changed.
From first assessment 2028, the IB Diploma Programme History course has been redesigned to focus less on memorising events and more on historical inquiry, thinking, and analysis. For students starting the new syllabus, this shift can feel confusing — especially if expectations are not clearly explained.
This article explains what IB History really is under the new course, how it works, and what students need to understand early in order to succeed.
Quick Start Checklist
- What IB History focuses on under the new course
- How the subject has changed for first assessment 2028
- What “historical inquiry” actually means
- Why memorisation alone is no longer enough
- What skills IB History now prioritises
IB History Is About Inquiry, Not Memorisation
Under the new IB History course (first assessment 2028), students are not rewarded for simply knowing facts. Instead, they are assessed on how well they can use historical knowledge to answer questions.
This means IB History focuses on:
- Asking historical questions
- Analysing causes and consequences
- Evaluating different perspectives
- Explaining change and continuity
- Judging historical significance
Facts still matter — but only when they are used purposefully to support an argument.
What Does “Historical Inquiry” Mean?
Historical inquiry is the core of IB History under the new specification.
In simple terms, it means students must:
- Investigate a question about the past
