Introduction
One of the first questions IB Computer Science students ask is: “What programming language do I need for the exams?” Since different schools teach different languages, there’s often confusion. The IB provides flexibility, but students must choose one language for consistency throughout their preparation.
This guide explains which programming languages are used in IB Computer Science, how the exams handle coding, and how you should prepare.
Programming Languages Allowed in IB Computer Science
As of the latest syllabus (2025 onward):
- Students can use Java or Python in Paper 1.
- Pseudocode is also accepted and often used in exam questions.
The IB doesn’t force all schools to use the same language. Instead, schools choose whether to teach Java or Python, and students are expected to stick with that language throughout the course.
How Programming Appears in Exams
Paper 1
- Core problem-solving paper.
- You’ll read, trace, and write code or pseudocode.
- Questions may be written in Java-style or Python-style pseudocode, depending on your chosen language.
Paper 2
- Theory and applied contexts.
- Doesn’t require writing full programs, but you may need to explain or outline coding logic.
Internal Assessment (IA)
- Your IA computational solution can be written in any programming language, but most students use Java or Python since these are taught in class.
