Studying IB Philosophy is one of the most intellectually rewarding experiences the International Baccalaureate offers. Whether you’re doing Standard Level (SL) or the more intense Higher Level (HL), these exams challenge your ability to think clearly, argue precisely, and analyze deeply. This guide will break down exactly what to expect from IB Philosophy SL and HL exams—so you walk into the exam room confident and prepared.
Overview of the IB Philosophy Curriculum
At its core, IB Philosophy explores the “big questions” of existence, knowledge, ethics, and human nature. All students, regardless of level, study:
- Core theme: Being Human
- Optional themes: Ethics, Epistemology, Political Philosophy, and more
- Prescribed texts: HL only
- Internal Assessment (IA): Personal philosophical analysis
HL students take on additional material and exams, but SL students still face a challenging philosophical journey.
Difference Between SL and HL in IB Philosophy
FeatureSLHLTotal Hours150240Papers1 + IA1 + 2 + IAPrescribed TextsNoYesHL ExtensionNot requiredYesDepth of ContentStandardAdvanced & comparative
HL requires deeper comparative analysis and a second paper focused on one or more philosophical texts, such as works by Plato, Descartes, or Kant.
Understanding the Exam Format: Paper Breakdown
IB Philosophy Paper 1: Stimulus-Based Essay (SL & HL)
- Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Format: One stimulus and four associated questions
- Focus: Interpretation, critical evaluation, application
You’re expected to evaluate a philosophical issue (e.g., moral relativism, personal identity) using reasoning and relevant theories.
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IB Philosophy Paper 2 (HL Only): Prescribed Texts Essay
- Time: 1 hour
- Focus: Analysis of one or more authors and philosophical arguments from the prescribed text list
You'll need to show a deep understanding of the chosen text’s arguments and how they relate to broader philosophical discussions.
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Internal Assessment (IA): The Philosophical Analysis
This is a 1,600-word exploration where students pick a real-world issue and analyze it through a philosophical lens.
- Criteria: Focus on understanding, analysis, and evaluation
- Structure: Clear intro, philosophical argument, and conclusion
Example topics: “Can AI be considered morally responsible?” or “Do humans have free will?”
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Key Themes & Philosophers to Study
Core Theme (Being Human) – Explore consciousness, identity, and what it means to live authentically.
Popular Optional Themes:
- Ethics: Deontology, Utilitarianism, Virtue Ethics
- Epistemology: Rationalism vs Empiricism
- Political Philosophy: Liberty, justice, authority
Philosophers You Should Know:
- Plato, Aristotle, Kant, Mill, Descartes, Marx, Rawls
Types of Exam Questions You’ll Encounter
- “To what extent can humans act morally without religion?”
- “Does knowledge require certainty?”
- “Analyse the argument presented by Descartes in Meditations.”
Questions are open-ended and require analysis, not memorization.
Marking Criteria: What Examiners Want
- Understanding of the question
- Philosophical content and accuracy
- Critical thinking and argument development
- Clarity, structure, and personal insight
Avoid vague generalities. Reference theories or thinkers clearly.
How to Structure Strong IB Philosophy Essays
- Introduction – Rephrase the question, give context, state your thesis
- Body Paragraphs – Present an argument, apply a philosopher’s view, evaluate critically
- Counterargument – Refute with logic or an opposing theory
- Conclusion – Reinforce thesis, acknowledge limits of your view
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Time Management in the Philosophy Exams
TaskRecommended TimePaper 1 – Planning20 minPaper 1 – Writing85 minPaper 2 – Planning15 minPaper 2 – Writing45 min
Plan thoroughly. Many students lose marks from unstructured responses.
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Best Revision Techniques for Philosophy
- Socratic Questioning: “Why do I believe this?”
- Flashcards: Key terms, thinkers, and definitions
- Mind Mapping: Connections between themes and philosophers
- Practice Essays: Simulate exam questions weekly
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Mistakes to Avoid in IB Philosophy Exams
- Overusing philosophical jargon without context
- Writing a history of philosophy instead of analysis
- Ignoring counterarguments
- Misinterpreting stimulus texts in Paper 1
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is IB Philosophy harder at HL than SL?
Yes. HL includes Paper 2 and prescribed texts which require deeper analysis and broader comparison.
Q2: How long should my IA be?
Your IA should be a max of 1,600 words. Keep it concise and analytical.
Q3: Can I use quotes from philosophers in the exam?
Yes, but only when relevant. It’s better to explain the idea in your own words and reference the thinker.
Q4: Is there a specific structure required for Paper 1?
Not exactly, but clarity and logical progression are essential. Stick to argument-counterargument-conclusion.
Q5: Should I memorize the prescribed texts for HL?
Not word-for-word, but know the arguments, structure, and how the author contributes to the theme.
Q6: Can I use RevisionDojo for my Philosophy IA?
Absolutely. RevisionDojo offers IA structure templates, feedback prompts, and philosophical concept drills.
🧠 Conclusion
Whether you’re taking SL or HL, IB Philosophy will push you to think deeper than ever before. With the right preparation, clear essay structure, and powerful tools like RevisionDojo, you’ll walk into every exam ready to engage with the world’s greatest ideas.
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