IB World Religions is a Standard Level-only Diploma Programme subject that studies living religions through their beliefs, practices and effects on believers’ lives. It is an academic Group 3 subject, not religious instruction, and develops analytical understanding alongside empathy for religious perspectives.
What Does the Course Study?
The course begins with questions about what religion is, how it can be studied, and how sources should be interpreted. Students consider insider and outsider approaches, distinguishing adherents’ perspectives from those of external observers without automatically treating either as superior.
Its introductory study is organized around three fundamental questions:
- What is the human condition?
- Where are we going?
- How do we get there?
These connect beliefs about human existence with religious goals and the practices through which believers pursue them.
| Course component | Required study |
|---|---|
| Part 1: Introduction to world religions | Five of nine religions, including at least one from each group: Hinduism/Buddhism/Sikhism; Judaism/Christianity/Islam; Taoism/Jainism/Bahá’í Faith. |
| Part 2: In-depth studies | Two religions from different groups: one from Hinduism/Buddhism/Sikhism and one from Judaism/Christianity/Islam. |
| Part 3: Investigative study | An individual investigation into religious belief, practice or experience; any religion may be chosen. |
In-depth study explores rituals, sacred texts, doctrines/beliefs, religious experience, and ethics and moral conduct. For example, studying Sikh sewa, altruistic service, means explaining how religious teachings shape participation in community activities such as preparing langar meals.
How Is It Assessed?
Paper 1 uses stimulus-based short responses and contributes 30%; Paper 2 uses essays and contributes 45%. The internal assessment, an investigative study with a maximum of 1,800 words, contributes 25%.
A common misconception is that success means memorizing facts about religions. Examiners also expect accurate terminology, explanations linking belief to behaviour, and recognition of diversity within traditions. In an Explain response, give reasons and a specific example, not just a description of a practice.